A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Basel vs. Split for Nightlife, Couples, Backpackers, and Attractions

Should you visit Basel or Split?

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

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

Basel

Basel is a vibrant, historic, and cultural city. The beauty of this spot is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. Visitors also love the food, shopping, and museums.

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. And you can't forget about the shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Basel and Split: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Basel or Split?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Split. Although Basel and Split are roughly the same size, Split has more sights and attractions for tourists. Split is better known for its food, nightlife, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, and big city activities, while Basel is more popular for its historical sights and impressive beauty. Split is more touristy than Basel and is popular for its historical sights, high energy coastal setting, and waterfront promenades. Also, Split is famous for Diocletian's Palace. Basel is well known for its many museums and its nice old town.

How is Basel different from Split?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Plenty of people visit the great sights and museums in both Basel and Split.

With a variety of museums, monuments, and historical sights, a trip to Basel can be an interesting and educational experience. The city is filled with history. Head to Minster Hill to see the beautiful historic church and Münsterplatz. There are also several unique museums around town including Jean Tinguely Museum, the Paper Mill Museum, the Historical Museum, and the Museum of Art.

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.

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

Split is notable for its local cuisine and restaurants. Also, Basel is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its restaurants.

Eating is part of the travel experience when you visit Split. 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.

Basel is becoming an appealing option for foodies. Food around town can be expensive, but there are some outdoor markets where you can buy fruit and a bratwurst for a reasonable price. The city is known for its breads, soups, and pastries, which are all delicious.

Is Basel or Split Better for Nightlife?

Split is a world-class destination for nightlife and partying. Also, Basel is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its evening party scene.

People head to Split just to party. 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.

With a handful of venues, visitors can find a fairly lively vibe in Basel. The city's nightlife comes alive as the sun sets. There are bars, pubs, and dance clubs that stay active until the early morning hours.

Is Basel or Split Better for Resorts?

Split is notable for its resorts. However, Basel 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.

Basel is not a resort destination.

Is Basel or Split Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Split is notable for its diving and snorkeling. However, Basel 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.

Basel is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Basel or Split Better for Beaches?

Split is notable for the beache. However, Basel 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.

Basel is not a beach destination.

Is Basel or Split Better for its Old Town?

Basel 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 Basel. The charming old town is fun to explore on foot with its quaint streets and meandering alleys. The beautiful architecture and ornate fountains give the area a unique personality. On the hottest days you may even see locals swimming in some of the fountains.

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 Basel or Split?

Both Basel and Split are great shopping destinations.

Basel is a popular shopping destination with plenty of stores. The old town is filled with shops that you can wander through as you explore. Popular shopping streets include Freie Strasse and the area around Marktplatz, where you'll find boutique shops and interesting trinkets. You can also head to the city's oldest department store - Manor.

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.

Is Basel or Split Better for Families?

Basel and Split are both great destinations for the whole family.

Basel is a very kid-friendly city. The city has an impressive zoo, a really unique toy museum, as well as Aquabasilea with its pools and slides. It's also compact enough that little legs can explore and enjoy everything that it has to offer. If the weather's warm, head for the river to cool off.

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.

Is Basel or Split Better for Couples?

Split is a world-class destination for its romantic activities. Also, Basel is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for couples.

Split has so much to offer for a romantic couple's vacation. 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.

Basel is a good city for couples to visit. Nice restaurants, interesting museums, and several great spas make this a nice place for a romantic trip.

Is Basel or Split Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Split is a world-class destination for backpackers. Also, Basel is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit 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.

Basel is a good city to visit for backpackers. There are a few hostels and a really useful City Pass that make this city an option for backpackers and budget travelers. It's also a major transit center so accessibility is convenient. If you're traveling around Europe by train, you'll likely pass through Basel at some point.

Is Basel or Split Better for Students?

Basel and Split are both great destinations for students and younger travelers.

Basel is a great city to visit as a student. The University of Basel brings in international students from around the world. The city makes a nice base for exploring Europe, but it's also a bit expensive which can be challenging on a student income.

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.

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

Basel 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 Basel can get you to some places easily. Trams and buses make it easy to 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 Basel or Split a more walkable city?

Basel 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 Basel. The old town and most of the major attractions are easily accessible 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 Basel Worth Visiting? and Is Split Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Split or Basel?

How long in Basel or Split?

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

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

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

In Split, many people enjoy the food and scuba diving and snorkeling that this fun-filled destination offers. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. Lots of people come for the nightlife. 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.

A weekend in Basel or Split?

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

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Split. For many, it makes a great getaway for a weekend. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. 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.

Five days in Basel or Split?

Basel is a fun place to experience. Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the destination of Basel. 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 fun place to experience. Travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the destination of Split. Lots of people come for the nightlife. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything.

A week in Basel or Split?

You'll find food and shopping around the museum-filled destination of Basel. 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.

You'll find museums and nightlife around the historic destination of Split. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. Lots of people come for the nightlife. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best 2-Week Tours in Switzerland, The Best Bicycle Tours in Switzerland, The Best Walking Tours in Croatia, and The Best Luxury Tours to Croatia.

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

Which is Bigger, Basel or Split?

Split has a larger population, and is about 7% larger than the population of Basel. When comparing the sizes of Basel 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 Basel 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 Basel or Split in the Summer?

Both Split and Basel during the summer are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Basel for the family-friendly experiences. Also, many visitors come to Split in the summer for the beaches, snorkeling, the city activities, and the family-friendly experiences.

Basel is cooler than Split in the summer. The daily temperature in Basel averages around 21°C (70°F) in July, and Split fluctuates around 26°C (80°F).

In Split, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Basel. In the summer, Basel often gets less sunshine than Split. Basel gets 241 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Split receives 345 hours of full sun.

Basel usually gets more rain in July than Split. Basel gets 89 mm (3.5 in) of rain, while Split receives 28 mm (1.1 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Basel or Split in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Basel and Split. Many visitors come to Basel in the autumn for the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area. Also, most visitors come to Split for the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene during these months.

In the autumn, Basel is cooler than Split. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Basel in October average around 13°C (56°F), and Split averages at about 18°C (64°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Split this time of the year. Basel usually receives less sunshine than Split during autumn. Basel gets 120 hours of sunny skies, while Split receives 200 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Basel usually receives less rain than Split. Basel gets 70 mm (2.8 in) of rain, while Split receives 79 mm (3.1 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Basel or Split in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Basel as well as Split. Most visitors come to Basel 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.

Basel can be very cold during winter. In January, Basel is generally much colder than Split. Daily temperatures in Basel average around 3°C (37°F), and Split fluctuates around 8°C (47°F).

In the winter, Basel often gets less sunshine than Split. Basel gets 55 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Split receives 128 hours of full sun.

Basel usually gets less rain in January than Split. Basel gets 77 mm (3 in) of rain, while Split receives 83 mm (3.3 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Basel or Split in the Spring?

Both Split and Basel are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. The spring months attract visitors to Basel because of the natural beauty. Also, the beaches and the activities around the city are the main draw to Split this time of year.

Basel is cooler than Split in the spring. The daily temperature in Basel averages around 12°C (53°F) in April, and Split fluctuates around 15°C (59°F).

It's quite sunny in Split. Basel usually receives less sunshine than Split during spring. Basel gets 150 hours of sunny skies, while Split receives 212 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Basel usually receives more rain than Split. Basel gets 79 mm (3.1 in) of rain, while Split receives 66 mm (2.6 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Split and Basel