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

Should you visit Bari 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 Bari 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.

Bari

Bari is a local, cultural, and authentic port city. It's a large city, so you'll find plenty of things to do around town. Visitors also love the food, beaches, and shopping.

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.

Bari and Split: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Bari or Split?

Visitors will generally find more to do in Split than Bari. While Bari is larger than Split, Split has more sights, attractions, and activities for tourists. Split is more popular for its nightlife, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, and shopping, while Bari is known for its food and historical sights. Split is more touristy than Bari and is known for its historical sights, high energy coastal setting, and waterfront promenades. It is also home to Diocletian's Palace. Bari is popular for its authentic old town and its role as a ferry port for travelers headed across the Adriatic.

How is Bari different from Split?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

You'll find a number of excellent museums and attractions in both Split and Bari.

Visitors can fill many days exploring the museums and attractions around Bari. The city is filled with historical sights and archeological ruins. San Nicola is the main basilica in town and a popular tourist sight. The Castello is also a highlight, as is San Sabino.

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 Bari or Split? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

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

Eat your way through Bari, as it has many local or world renowned restaurants to choose from. It's off-the-beaten-path vibe means that you won't find the overpriced tourist restaurants that have taken over more touristy cities. Instead you'll find locally owned pasta shops that cater to the town's residents. You can taste authentic Pugliese cuisine, which is centered around wheat and olive oil. Orecchiette is the local pasta and seafood is one of the most common staples.

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 Bari or Split Better for Nightlife?

Split is terrific for its evening party scene. Also, Bari is not as popular, but is still a nice port city for nightlife.

Split is a must-see party destination. 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.

Bari offers plenty to do in the evening. The city really comes to life at night with many dance clubs, bars, and other fun venues. There's plenty of live music as well as jazz clubs and other local bars.

Is Bari or Split Better for Resorts?

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

Bari is not a resort destination.

Is Bari or Split Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Split is a great city for snorkeling and scuba diving. However, Bari 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.

Bari is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Bari or Split Better for Beaches?

Split is a great city for the beach. Also, Bari is not as popular, but is still a nice port city for its beaches.

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.

Bari is a good option for a beach vacation. There's a sandy beach that you can reach by bus outside of the city center. There are also many great beaches around Puglia if you're willing to take a day trip or travel a bit farther.

Is Bari or Split Better for its Old Town?

Bari 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 Bari. The old town is filled with historic sights, mazelike streets, and great food. It's pedestrian-only and, because Bari is not as popular with tourists, it holds on to its authentic charm.

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 Bari or Split?

Split is a great city for its shopping areas. Also, Bari is not as popular, but is still a nice port city 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.

Bari is a great destination for shopping. You won't find the souvenir shops that you find in more touristy cities, so if you take the time to do some shopping while you're in town, you can enjoy a truly authentic and cultural experience.

Is Bari or Split Better for Families?

Both Bari and Split are excellent family-friendly destinations.

You'll find plenty of family-friendly things to do in Bari. There are historical sites and castles to explore as well as the fun-filled Miragica amusement park. There's also an impressive underground city that will spark the kid's imagination. Other fun activities include visiting the nearby beaches, taking a kayak tour, or wandering around the old town.

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 Bari or Split Better for Couples?

Split is terrific for couples. Also, Bari is not as popular, but is still a nice port city 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.

Bari is a nice destination for couples. The old town is filled with mazelike streets and the city has many unique activities that appeal to history buffs and outdoor enthusiasts alike.

Is Bari or Split Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Split is terrific for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Bari is not as popular, but is still a nice port city 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 Bari. There's plenty of hostels around town and the prices are usually very reasonable. Many backpackers pass through this port city on their way to Greece or other Adriatic destinations.

Is Bari or Split Better for Students?

For students, both Bari and Split are excellent places to visit.

Many students visit Bari. It's a great student city that offers access to many nearby Mediterranean destinations. There are also a number of historical sights within town that students can visit.

Split is a very popular port 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 Bari or Split Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Bari and Split both offer good public transit to get you around.

While Bari offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. There are buses around town that are operated by the AMTAB.

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

Is Bari or Split a more walkable city?

Bari and Split are excellent when it comes to walkability.

Bari is a very walkable destination. The old town is pedestrian-only and best explored on foot. It's also about a 20 minute walk from the central train station.

Split is very walkable. 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 Bari Worth Visiting? and Is Split Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Split or Bari?

How long in Bari or Split?

It's fun to spend time in either Bari or Split. Generally, people tend to spend more time in Split due to the larger number of activities and things to do. Usually, 1-3 days is a good amount of time for Bari, and 2-4 days is enough time in Split.

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

In Bari, many people enjoy the shopping and museums that this local destination offers. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. Lots of people come for the food. This port city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Because of this, one day is usually enough time for a trip here.

Visitors enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the destination of Split. People usually spend lots of time at the beach. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything.

A weekend in Bari or Split?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Bari. 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 fun place to experience. Most people visit for the nightlife. If you have a weekend, this is a great place to go. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. A weekend is often enough time to do most activities. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

Five days in Bari or Split?

Bari is a fun place to experience. Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the destination of Bari. Lots of people come for the food. Visiting the old town is also a must. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything.

You'll find scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping around the touristy destination of Split. This city offers something for everyone. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

A week in Bari or Split?

You'll find food and shopping around the authentic destination of Bari. 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 plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

The active city of Split offers shopping and museums. You'll find plenty of activities on the beach. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. One week 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.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Historical Tours in Italy, The Best 10-Day Tours in Italy, The Best Walking Tours in Croatia, and The Best Luxury Tours to Croatia.

When comparing the travel costs between Bari and Split, we can see that Bari 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 Bari Expensive? and Is Split Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Bari or Split?

Bari has a larger population, and is about 80% larger than the population of Split. When comparing the sizes of Bari 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 Bari 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 Bari or Split in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Bari and Split. The summer months attract visitors to Bari because of the beaches, the city activities, and the family-friendly experiences. Furthermore, the beaches, snorkeling, the city activities, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Split this time of year.

In July, Bari is generally around the same temperature as Split. Daily temperatures in Bari average around 25°C (76°F), and Split fluctuates around 26°C (80°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Split this time of the year. In Bari, it's very sunny this time of the year. Bari usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Split during summer. Bari gets 336 hours of sunny skies, while Split receives 345 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Bari usually receives less rain than Split. Bari gets 9 mm (0.3 in) of rain, while Split receives 28 mm (1.1 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Bari or Split in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Bari as well as Split. The city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene are the main draw to Bari this time of year. Additionally, many travelers come to Split for the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene.

Bari is around the same temperature as Split in the autumn. The daily temperature in Bari averages around 18°C (65°F) in October, and Split fluctuates around 18°C (64°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Split. In the autumn, Bari often gets less sunshine than Split. Bari gets 178 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Split receives 200 hours of full sun.

Bari usually gets less rain in October than Split. Bari gets 70 mm (2.7 in) of rain, while Split receives 79 mm (3.1 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Bari or Split in the Winter?

Both Split and Bari are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Bari for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, many visitors come to Split in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

In the winter, Bari is a little warmer than Split. Typically, the winter temperatures in Bari in January average around 10°C (49°F), and Split averages at about 8°C (47°F).

Bari usually receives less sunshine than Split during winter. Bari gets 110 hours of sunny skies, while Split receives 128 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Bari usually receives less rain than Split. Bari gets 62 mm (2.4 in) of rain, while Split receives 83 mm (3.3 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Bari or Split in the Spring?

Both Split and Bari during the spring are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Bari in the spring for the beaches and the activities around the city. Also, most visitors come to Split for the beaches and the activities around the city during these months.

In April, Bari is generally around the same temperature as Split. Daily temperatures in Bari average around 14°C (58°F), and Split fluctuates around 15°C (59°F).

In Split, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Bari. In the spring, Bari often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Split. Bari gets 203 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Split receives 212 hours of full sun.

Bari usually gets less rain in April than Split. Bari 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 Bari