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

Should you visit Avignon or Split?

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

Which city should you visit? Read on to compare the activities as well as the prices of travel for Avignon and Split. We'll break down costs for accommodation, food, transportation and more to help you learn more about these two destinations. Then, you can figure out if either of these two places are accessible based on your travel budget, schedule, and interests. So, let's dig into it.

Avignon

Avignon is a quaint, charming, and scenic town. You'll find plenty of local activities in this small town. Visitors also love the shopping, museums, and food.

Split

Split is a active, touristy, and fun-filled 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.

Avignon and Split: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Avignon or Split?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Split than Avignon, as it is bigger with more sights, attractions, and activities for visitors. Split is more popular for its nightlife, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, shopping, and big city activities, while Avignon is known for its museums, food, historical sights, and small town charm. Split is more touristy than Avignon and is known for its historical sights, high energy coastal setting, and waterfront promenades. It is also home to Diocletian's Palace. Avignon is popular for its architectural beauty and historical importance.

How is Avignon different from Split?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Avignon 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 Avignon are world-renowned. The town is filled with historical landmarks such as Palais des Papes, Pont Saint Bénézet, Musée du Petit Palais, and Basilique Métropolitaine Notre-Dame des Doms.

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 Avignon or Split? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

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

Eat your way through Avignon, as it has many local or world renowned restaurants to choose from. For such a small town you'll find many great eateries where you can sample French cuisine. You'll find bakeries, patisseries, restaurants, chocolatiers, and cafes to try. Cooking classes are also a popular activity in 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 Avignon or Split Better for Nightlife?

Split is renowned for its evening party scene. However, Avignon is lacking in good options for nightlife.

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.

Avignon is generally a quiet destination but there are options around. There's a limited nightlife scene but the bars you'll find are usually centered around Place de lHorloge, Place du Palais, Rue Carnot, and Place des Corps-Saints.

Is Avignon or Split Better for Resorts?

Split is a very popular place for its luxury resorts. However, Avignon is not a resort destination.

There are plenty of resorts in Split to choose from. 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.

Avignon is not a resort destination.

Is Avignon or Split Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Split is a very popular place for snorkeling and scuba diving. However, Avignon is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

There are many scuba diving and snorkeling spots near 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.

Avignon is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Avignon or Split Better for Beaches?

Split is a very popular place for the beach. However, Avignon is not a beach destination.

Many people visit Split for it's beautiful beaches. 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.

Avignon is not a beach destination.

Is Avignon or Split Better for its Old Town?

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

Avignon has a unique history which comes to life in its historic area. The walled medieval old town is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and it's filled with history.

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 Avignon or Split?

Split is a very popular place for its shopping areas. Also, Avignon is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for shopping.

Many visitors explore the shopping areas 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.

Avignon is a great destination for shopping. There are several shopping streets in town like Rue de la Republique, Rue Joseph-Vernet, and Rue St Agricol.

Is Avignon or Split Better for Families?

Split is a very popular place for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Avignon is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its family-friendly activities.

You'll find plenty of family-friendly things to do in Split. 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.

You'll find plenty of kid-friendly things to do in Avignon. Families can enjoy cooking classes, boat tours, and exploring the old town together.

Is Avignon or Split Better for Couples?

Split is renowned for couples. Also, Avignon is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for romance.

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.

Couples visit Avignon frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. Filled with history, couples can enjoy strolling through the old town or dinner on amazing French food.

Is Avignon or Split Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Split is renowned for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Avignon 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.

Plenty of budget travelers visit Avignon. You'll find a few affordable hotels, but hostels are a little bit more difficult to come by.

Is Avignon or Split Better for Students?

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

Many students visit 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.

Avignon is not popular with students.

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

Visitors will find good public transit in both Avignon and Split.

Avignon has some public transit options. There are city buses as well as tourist shuttles 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 Avignon or Split a more walkable city?

Avignon 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 Avignon. There's almost no traffic in the city center 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 Avignon Worth Visiting? and Is Split Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Split or Avignon?

How long in Avignon or Split?

It's fun to spend time in either Avignon 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 Avignon, and 2-4 days is enough time in Split.

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

Even though Avignon is a small town, it has plenty of activities to choose from. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. This town 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 Avignon or Split?

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

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 Avignon or Split?

Avignon is a fun place to experience. Avignon is a small town, so it's a great destination if you're short on time. Visiting the old town is also a must. 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 Avignon or Split?

Avignon is a small town, so you can explore the area with less time. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. 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 France, The Best One Week (7-Day) Tours in France, The Best Walking Tours in Croatia, and The Best Luxury Tours to Croatia.

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

Which is Bigger, Avignon or Split?

Split has a larger population, and is about 96% larger than the population of Avignon. When comparing the sizes of Avignon 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 Avignon 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 Avignon or Split in the Summer?

Both Split and Avignon are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. The summer months attract visitors to Avignon because of the small town charm and the family-friendly experiences. Also, the beaches, snorkeling, the city activities, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Split this time of year.

In July, Avignon is generally cooler than Split. Daily temperatures in Avignon average around 24°C (75°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 Avignon. Avignon usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Split during summer. Avignon gets 354 hours of sunny skies, while Split receives 345 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Avignon usually receives more rain than Split. Avignon 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 Avignon or Split in the Autumn?

Both Split and Avignon during the autumn are popular places to visit. The shopping scene and the small town atmosphere are the main draw to Avignon this time of year. Furthermore, many travelers come to Split for the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene.

Avignon is cooler than Split in the autumn. The daily temperature in Avignon averages around 16°C (61°F) in October, and Split fluctuates around 18°C (64°F).

In Split, it's very sunny this time of the year. In the autumn, Avignon often gets less sunshine than Split. Avignon gets 178 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Split receives 200 hours of full sun.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Avignon. Avignon usually gets more rain in October than Split. Avignon gets 130 mm (5.1 in) of rain, while Split receives 79 mm (3.1 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Avignon or Split in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Avignon and Split. Many travelers come to Avignon for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Furthermore, many visitors come to Split in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

In the winter, Avignon is cooler than Split. Typically, the winter temperatures in Avignon in January average around 7°C (44°F), and Split averages at about 8°C (47°F).

Avignon usually receives more sunshine than Split during winter. Avignon gets 146 hours of sunny skies, while Split receives 128 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Avignon usually receives less rain than Split. Avignon gets 67 mm (2.6 in) of rain, while Split receives 83 mm (3.3 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Avignon or Split in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Avignon as well as Split. Many visitors come to Avignon in the spring for the small town charm. Additionally, most visitors come to Split for the beaches and the activities around the city during these months.

In April, Avignon is generally cooler than Split. Daily temperatures in Avignon average around 13°C (56°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 Avignon this time of the year. In the spring, Avignon often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Split. Avignon gets 218 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Split receives 212 hours of full sun.

Avignon usually gets less rain in April than Split. Avignon gets 57 mm (2.2 in) of rain, while Split receives 66 mm (2.6 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Split and Avignon