A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Antalya vs. Split for Nightlife, Resorts, Beaches, and Couples

Should you visit Antalya or Split?

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

Should I visit Antalya or Split? 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.

Antalya

Antalya is a luxurious, historic, and cultural vacation spot. The beauty of this spot is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. This destination also has one of those special and quaint feelings. Visitors also love the hiking, shopping, and museums.

Split

Split is a touristy, fun-filled, and budget-friendly city. Because this is such a big city, visitors will find many sights and attractions around town. It's also popular because of the museums, nightlife, and food.

Antalya and Split: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Antalya or Split?

Visitors will generally find more to do in Split than Antalya. While Antalya is larger than Split, Split has more sights, attractions, and activities for tourists. Split is more popular for its nightlife, scuba diving & snorkeling, and big city activities, while Antalya is known for its music, resorts, beaches, historical sights, hiking, shopping, impressive beauty, and quaint atmosphere. Antalya is popular for its turquoise waters, hotel lined beaches, and nearby archeological sights. Split is popular for its historical sights, high energy coastal setting, and waterfront promenades. It is also home to Diocletian's Palace.

How is Antalya different from Split?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

You'll find a number of superb museums and attractions in both Split and Antalya.

Antalya offers many unique museums, sights, and landmarks that will make for a memorable trip. The city combines history with a relaxing resort vacation. Sights in the area include the Antalya Museum and the Yivli Minare.

Many visitors head to Split specifically to visit some of its top-rated museums and other sights. 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 Antalya or Split? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Picking the best cuisine and restaurants between Antalya and Split can be difficult as they are each superb in their own way.

Antalya has a number of nationally recognized food spots and restaurants. Food is excellent throughout Turkey and this city is no exception. The local cuisine offers a combination of fresh caught seafood as well as various grilled meats. Local specialties include meatball skewers, kulakli soup, and even lentil ice cream. The traditional Turkish breakfast is also popular, which usually includes hard boiled eggs, cheese, tomatoes, cucumber, olives, and Turkish breads or pastries. It's almost always served with Turkish tea.

With its innovative style combined with traditional elements, Split makes for a great culinary experience. 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 Antalya or Split Better for Nightlife?

Split is an amazing city to visit for its evening party scene. Also, Antalya is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for nightlife.

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.

Antalya is a popular destination for visitors looking to party into the night. The city has an insane nightlife scene with huge glamorous dance clubs that fill to the brink as well as low key bars and pubs that everyone can enjoy.

Is Antalya or Split Better for Music?

Antalya is a good destination for its live music scene. However, Split is not a live music destination.

You don't have to look far to find a unique music venue in Antalya. Live music ranges from rock concerts to symphonies as well as a number of local music venues.

Split is not a live music destination.

Is Antalya or Split Better for Resorts?

Antalya is terrific for its luxury resorts. Also, Split is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its resorts.

Vacationers flock to Antalya for its luxury resorts. The city is famous for its resorts that range from luxury to family-friendly. Some of the most popular resorts in the area include Xanadu Resort Hotel, Susesi, and Lara Barut, but there are many more.

Split is known as a popular and fun resort destination. 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.

Is Antalya or Split Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Split is a very popular place for snorkeling and scuba diving. Also, Antalya is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for the nearby scuba diving and snorkeling.

Many visitors partake in scuba diving or snorkeing while visiting Split. 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.

It's worth going snorkeling or scuba diving in Antalya. Outside of town, in the region of Antalya, you'll find some of the best snorkeling and scuba diving in Turkey.

Is Antalya or Split Better for Beaches?

Antalya is terrific for the beache. Also, Split is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for the beach.

Antalya offers stunning beaches that attract visitors from around the world. Beaches in Antalya are among the best in Turkey. They are sandy with warm water and a number of resorts nearby.

Split is considered a top beach destination. 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.

Is Antalya or Split Better for its Old Town?

Antalya 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 Antalya. The city has a beautiful old town area, Kaleiçi, that is known for its narrow streets and historic buildings. The area has many sights including Hadrian's Gate.

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 Antalya or Split Better for Hiking?

Antalya 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 Antalya. Outside of town you'll find coastal hikes with scenic views as well as trails that wander through historic ruins.

Split is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Antalya or Split?

Antalya is terrific for its shopping opportunities. Also, Split is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its shopping areas.

Known for shopping, Antalya draws large crowds to its stores. Antalya combines modern high end malls with more traditional bazaars. From luxury fashion brands to souvenirs and local trinkets, the area has everything.

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 Antalya or Split Better for Families?

Kids will enjoy a visit to either Antalya or Split.

You'll find plenty of family-friendly things to do in Antalya. The city has beautiful beaches, historic ruins, and resorts that cater specifically to families. It's a popular family-friendly destination in Turkey.

Split is a very family-friendly place to visit. 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.

Is Antalya or Split Better for Couples?

Split is an amazing city to visit for couples. Also, Antalya is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for romance.

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

Couples visit Antalya frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. Antalya is a top-rated honeymoon destination in Turkey. It's beautiful beaches, romantic resorts, and great shopping put it at the top of many couples' list.

Is Antalya or Split Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Split is an amazing city to visit for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Antalya is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for backpackers.

A large number of backpackers visit Split, as it is a very popular city for budget travelers. 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.

Backpackers come from all over to visit Antalya. Despite the many resorts in town, there are also budget accommodation options available including hostels. Backpackers appreciate Antalya's impressive old town as well as the area's stunning beaches.

Is Antalya or Split Better for Students?

Split is a very popular place for its student-friendly activities. However, Antalya is not popular with students.

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.

Antalya is not popular with students.

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

Antalya 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 Antalya can get you to some places easily. Buses and minibuses will help you get around town.

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 Antalya or Split a more walkable city?

Split is a very popular place for its ease of walking around. Also, Antalya is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its walkability.

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.

Antalya is somewhat walkable. The historic area in particular is compact, filled with historic sights, and easy to explore on foot.

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

Should I spend more time in Split or Antalya?

How long in Antalya or Split?

It's fun to spend time in either Antalya or Split. Generally, people tend to spend more time in Antalya due to the larger number of activities and things to do. Usually, 2-5 days is a good amount of time for Antalya, and 2-4 days is enough time in Split.

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Split than Antalya 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 Antalya or Split?

In Antalya, many people enjoy the nightlife and live music that this high energy destination offers. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. This vacation spot 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.

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 Antalya or Split?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Antalya. 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.

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 Antalya or Split?

Antalya is a fun place to experience. In Antalya, many people enjoy the food and scuba diving and snorkeling that this destination offers. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. This would be the perfect place to spend five days, as it has just the right amount of activities.

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 Antalya or Split?

You'll find scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping around the vibrant destination of Antalya. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. 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 10-Day Tours in Turkey, The Best One Week (7-Day) Tours in Turkey, The Best Walking Tours in Croatia, and The Best Luxury Tours to Croatia.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Antalya and Split, we can see that Antalya 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 Antalya would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Antalya 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 Antalya Expensive? and Is Split Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Antalya or Split?

Antalya has a larger population, and is about 4 times larger than the population of Split. When comparing the sizes of Antalya 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 Antalya 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 Antalya or Split in the Summer?

Both Split and Antalya are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Antalya for the beaches, snorkeling, the hiking, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences during these months. Also, the summer months attract visitors to Split because of the beaches, snorkeling, the city activities, and the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Antalya is generally around the same temperature as Split. Daily temperatures in Antalya average around 28°C (83°F), and Split fluctuates around 26°C (80°F).

It's quite sunny in Split. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Antalya. Antalya usually receives more sunshine than Split during summer. Antalya gets 376 hours of sunny skies, while Split receives 345 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Antalya usually receives less rain than Split. Antalya gets 3 mm (0.1 in) of rain, while Split receives 28 mm (1.1 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Antalya or Split in the Autumn?

Both Split and Antalya during the autumn are popular places to visit. The autumn months attract visitors to Antalya because of the hiking trails, the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area. Furthermore, the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene are the main draw to Split this time of year.

Antalya is a little warmer than Split in the autumn. The daily temperature in Antalya averages around 21°C (69°F) in October, and Split fluctuates around 18°C (64°F).

In Split, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Antalya. In the autumn, Antalya often gets more sunshine than Split. Antalya gets 251 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Split receives 200 hours of full sun.

Antalya usually gets less rain in October than Split. Antalya gets 70 mm (2.8 in) of rain, while Split receives 79 mm (3.1 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Antalya or Split in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Antalya and Split. The museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Antalya this time of year. Furthermore, many travelers come to Split for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

In the winter, Antalya is a little warmer than Split. Typically, the winter temperatures in Antalya in January average around 11°C (51°F), and Split averages at about 8°C (47°F).

Antalya usually receives more sunshine than Split during winter. Antalya gets 161 hours of sunny skies, while Split receives 128 hours of full sun in the winter.

Antalya gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In January, Antalya usually receives more rain than Split. Antalya gets 239 mm (9.4 in) of rain, while Split receives 83 mm (3.3 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Antalya or Split in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Antalya as well as Split. Many travelers come to Antalya for the beaches and the natural beauty. Additionally, many visitors come to Split in the spring for the beaches and the activities around the city.

In April, Antalya is generally around the same temperature as Split. Daily temperatures in Antalya average around 16°C (62°F), and Split fluctuates around 15°C (59°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Split. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Antalya this time of the year. In the spring, Antalya often gets more sunshine than Split. Antalya gets 243 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Split receives 212 hours of full sun.

Antalya usually gets less rain in April than Split. Antalya gets 46 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while Split receives 66 mm (2.6 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Split and Antalya