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

Should you visit Bergen or Split?

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

Should I visit Bergen 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.

Bergen

Bergen is a laid back, nostalgic, and friendly city. This is a charming small with plenty of activities, too. Visitors also love the food, 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. Other popular activities here include scuba diving and snorkeling, beaches, and shopping.

Bergen and Split: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Bergen or Split?

Travelers will generally find more things to do in Split than Bergen. While Bergen is larger than Split, Split has more sights and attractions for tourists. Split is more popular for its museums, food, nightlife, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, and big city activities, while Bergen is known for its small town charm. Split is more touristy than Bergen and is popular for its historical sights, high energy coastal setting, and waterfront promenades. It is also home to Diocletian's Palace. Bergen is popular for its breathtaking fjords, classic wooden houses, and surrounding mountain beauty.

How is Bergen different from Split?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Split is notable for its sights and museums. Also, Bergen is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its museums and history.

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.

Bergen is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. There are some interesting local museums such as the Hanseatic Museum, the Edvard Grieg Museum, and the KODE Museums.

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

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

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.

There are plenty of up and coming restaurants around Bergen. The city's economy has long been centered around the fish trade and even today you'll find cod, shellfish, trout, and salmon on most menus. Sheep and mutton are also popular. Desserts and coffee are also a big part of the local culture.

Is Bergen or Split Better for Nightlife?

Split is very popular for its evening party scene. Also, Bergen is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for nightlife.

Split is a party destination, and you'll find plenty of activity all night long. 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 Bergen. It's a small city without a huge nightlife district, but there are bars and clubs in Bryggen and Old Bulls Plass. The city has enough students to keep things lively and fun.

Is Bergen or Split Better for Resorts?

Split is notable for its resorts. However, Bergen is not a resort destination.

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.

Bergen is not a resort destination.

Is Bergen or Split Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Split is notable for snorkeling and scuba diving. However, Bergen is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

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.

Bergen is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Bergen or Split Better for Beaches?

Split is notable for the beach. However, Bergen is not a beach destination.

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.

Bergen is not a beach destination.

Is Bergen or Split Better for its Old Town?

It's fun to wander around the good old towns in both Bergen and Split.

Bergen offers a nice historic old town area. The wooden buildings and compact streets have a quaint and nostalgic atmosphere.

Split is a good destination for visiting its old town. 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 Bergen or Split?

Both Bergen and Split are superb shopping destinations.

Browsing through shops is a popular activity in Bergen. The city center is filled with specialty boutiques as well as larger department stores. Shopping has long been a large part of the economy and you'll enjoy exploring the diversity of retail options.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting 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 Bergen or Split Better for Families?

Kids will enjoy a visit to either Bergen or Split.

Bergen is known to be a very family-friendly place to visit. There are some interesting educational opportunities for kids including the Bergen Aquarium, VilVite Science Centre, and Experience Bryggen. Other fun activities include Vannkanten Waterworld and the Fløibanen Funicular.

Split is a very family-friendly destination. 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 Bergen or Split Better for Couples?

Split is very popular for couples. Also, Bergen is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit 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.

Bergen makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. There are many romantic activities near town like swimming in the fjords and walking through the parks. There are also spas and music concerts to enjoy.

Is Bergen or Split Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Split is very popular for backpackers. Also, Bergen is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for backpackers and budget travelers.

Split is a very popular city to visit for backpackers. 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.

Bergen is popular with backpackers and budget travelers. There are a few hostels and guesthouses around town where backpackers can meet other travelers.

Is Bergen or Split Better for Students?

Split is notable for students. Also, Bergen is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its student-friendly activities.

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.

Plenty of students visit Bergen. It's a very student-friendly city with many activities and a laid back atmosphere. The university facilities are spread out around town and the locals are welcoming and helpful.

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

Bergen 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 Bergen can get you to some places easily. For the areas that are outside of the city center, you can take a local bus or the light rail to access them. These services are operated by Skyss.

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 Bergen or Split a more walkable city?

Bergen and Split both are superb when exploring on foot.

Bergen is a very walkable destination. The city center is flat and compact enough that it's fun to explore on foot.

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 Bergen Worth Visiting? and Is Split Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Split or Bergen?

How long in Bergen or Split?

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

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

In Bergen, many people enjoy the shopping and museums that this nostalgic destination offers. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Because of this, one day is usually enough time for a trip here.

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 Bergen or Split?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Bergen. For many, it makes a great getaway for a weekend. 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 Bergen or Split?

Bergen is a fun place to experience. Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the destination of Bergen. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything.

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 Bergen or Split?

You'll find food and shopping around the laid back destination of Bergen. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the historic 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 10-Day Tours in Norway, The Best One Week (7-Day) Tours in Norway, The Best Walking Tours in Croatia, and The Best Luxury Tours to Croatia.

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

Which is Bigger, Bergen or Split?

Bergen has a larger population, and is about 21% larger than the population of Split. When comparing the sizes of Bergen 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 Bergen 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 Bergen or Split in the Summer?

Both Split and Bergen during the summer are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Bergen for the small town charm 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, Bergen is generally much colder than Split. Daily temperatures in Bergen average around 15°C (58°F), and Split fluctuates around 26°C (80°F).

It rains a lot this time of the year in Bergen. Bergen usually gets more rain in July than Split. Bergen gets 148 mm (5.8 in) of rain, while Split receives 28 mm (1.1 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Bergen or Split in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Bergen and Split. The autumn months attract visitors to Bergen because of the shopping scene and the small town atmosphere. Also, the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene are the main draw to Split this time of year.

Bergen is much colder than Split in the autumn. The daily temperature in Bergen averages around 9°C (48°F) in October, and Split fluctuates around 18°C (64°F).

Bergen gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In October, Bergen usually receives more rain than Split. Bergen gets 271 mm (10.7 in) of rain, while Split receives 79 mm (3.1 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Bergen or Split in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Bergen as well as Split. The museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Bergen this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Split for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

It's quite cold in Bergen in the winter. In the winter, Bergen is much colder than Split. Typically, the winter temperatures in Bergen in January average around 2°C (35°F), and Split averages at about 8°C (47°F).

Bergen receives a lot of rain in the winter. Bergen usually gets more rain in January than Split. Bergen gets 190 mm (7.5 in) of rain, while Split receives 83 mm (3.3 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Bergen or Split in the Spring?

Both Split and Bergen are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Bergen for the small town charm. Also, many visitors come to Split in the spring for the beaches and the activities around the city.

In April, Bergen is generally much colder than Split. Daily temperatures in Bergen average around 6°C (43°F), and Split fluctuates around 15°C (59°F).

It's quite rainy in Bergen. In April, Bergen usually receives more rain than Split. Bergen gets 114 mm (4.5 in) of rain, while Split receives 66 mm (2.6 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Split and Bergen