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

Should you visit Biarritz or Split?

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

Should I visit Biarritz 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.

Biarritz

Biarritz is a quirky, dynamic, and cultural seaside town. This is a charming small with plenty of activities, too. Visitors also love the food, beaches, and shopping.

Split

Split is a touristy, fun-filled, and budget-friendly city. It's a large city, so you'll find plenty of things to do around town. Visitors also love the food, scuba diving and snorkeling, and beaches.

Biarritz and Split: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Biarritz or Split?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Split than Biarritz, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Split is better known for its museums, nightlife, scuba diving & snorkeling, historical sights, and big city activities, while Biarritz is more popular for its small town charm. Split is more touristy than Biarritz and is known for its historical sights, high energy coastal setting, and waterfront promenades. Also, Split is famous for Diocletian's Palace. Biarritz is well known for its surfing culture, long beaches, and seaside atmosphere.

How is Biarritz different from Split?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Split is an excellent place to visit for its museums and history. However, Biarritz is lacking in options for its museums and landmarks.

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.

Biarritz offers a handful of options for museums and historical sights. Most people pass their time relaxing on the beach or taking a walk, but you can also visit the Biarritz Aquarium or the Biarritz Lighthouse.

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

There are opportunities to sample the local cuisine at superb restaurants in both Biarritz and Split.

Biarritz has a huge number of terrific restaurants. The food is a delicious mix of French, Spanish, and Basque flavors. Seafood is an obvious influence, but you'll also find meat and bread in many dishes. Local specialties include the oysters, pintxos (a snack of bread topped with ham, cheese, or vegetables), and marmitako (tuna stew).

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 Biarritz or Split Better for Nightlife?

Split is renowned for nightlife and partying. Also, Biarritz is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its evening party scene.

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.

The people in Biarritz know how to have a good time. The city center has the most bars and clubs if you're looking for a party. Head to Port Vieux or Les Halles for some of the city's best nightlife. For a more relaxed night out, there are night markets as well as beach front terraces and rooftops where you can sip wine in a mellow atmosphere.

Is Biarritz or Split Better for Resorts?

Biarritz and Split offer a relatively similar set of superb luxury resort options.

Biarritz is known as a popular and fun resort destination. You'll find a mix of holiday cottages, vacation rentals, and beachfront hotels. There are also hostels around town for those on a budget.

Vacationers can choose from a number of terrific resorts in Split. 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 Biarritz or Split Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Split is an excellent place to visit for its diving and snorkeling. However, Biarritz 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.

Biarritz is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Biarritz or Split Better for Beaches?

For a relaxing beach holiday, both Biarritz and Split are superb choices.

Biarritz is considered a top beach destination. There are plenty of sandy beaches near the town that offer great surfing. For calmer water you can head to some of the smaller bays. Some of the most popular beaches in the area include Le Grande Plage, Plage du Miramar, and Plage Port Vieux.

Split is a very popular place to visit for its 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.

Is Biarritz or Split Better for its Old Town?

Split is a popular place for its old town. However, Biarritz does not have a historic old town.

Plenty of visitors enjoy exploring the old town in Split. 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.

Biarritz does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Biarritz or Split?

Shoppers can find a variety of superb stores in both Biarritz and Split.

Biarritz is well-known for its shopping. The town has many market halls, boutiques, and department stores. Head to Avenue de Verdun for some quirky local stores or Place Georges Clemenceau for more high end shopping.

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 Biarritz or Split Better for Families?

Kids will enjoy a visit to either Biarritz or Split.

Because of its large number of kid-friendly activities, Biarritz is very family-friendly. The sandy beaches are great for surfing, but you'll also find some calm water where kids can play. There are plenty of surf schools in the area that will help kids learn if they're just beginning to surf. Kids who love the ocean will find tons of entertainment in this seaside town.

Split is known to be 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 Biarritz or Split Better for Couples?

Split is renowned for its romantic activities. Also, Biarritz is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for couples.

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 Biarritz frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. There are many coastal walks, sandy beaches, and surfing opportunities that couples can enjoy. Combine that with great French cuisine and a lively atmosphere, and you won't find a better couples getaway.

Is Biarritz or Split Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Split is renowned for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Biarritz is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for backpackers.

With so many budget-friendly offerings, Split is extremely popular 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.

Biarritz is a very popular seaside town for backpackers and budget travelers. The town attracts surfers and there are plenty of hostels and other accommodation options for budget travelers or backpackers.

Is Biarritz or Split Better for Students?

Split is an excellent place to visit for its student-friendly activities. However, Biarritz 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.

Biarritz is not popular with students.

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

Visitors will find notable public transit in both Biarritz and Split.

Biarritz has some public transit options. There are regional bus lines to nearby towns operated by Chronoplus and PESA.

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 Biarritz or Split a more walkable city?

Biarritz and Split are superb when it comes to walkability.

Biarritz is a very walkable seaside town. The city center is very walkable and you can reach many of the beaches on foot as well.

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 Biarritz Worth Visiting? and Is Split Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Split or Biarritz?

How long in Biarritz or Split?

It's fun to spend time in either Biarritz or Split. Generally, people tend to spend more time in Biarritz due to the larger number of activities and things to do. Usually, 3-7 days is a good amount of time for Biarritz, and 2-4 days is enough time in Split.

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

In Biarritz, many people enjoy the nightlife and food that this relaxing destination offers. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. This seaside town 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.

The city of Split offers museums and nightlife. Most people come for the beaches. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

A weekend in Biarritz or Split?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Biarritz. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. A weekend is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision.

Split is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have a weekend, this city makes for a great vacation. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Split, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Five days in Biarritz or Split?

Biarritz is a fun place to experience. In Biarritz, many people enjoy the shopping and nightlife 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 popular choice for travelers. It's no surprise that nightlife is why people visit. Five days 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. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

A week in Biarritz or Split?

In Biarritz, many people enjoy the nightlife and food that this dynamic destination offers. Plenty of people spend one week in the area when traveling. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One week is often enough time to do most activities.

Split is a great place to explore. It's no surprise that nightlife is why people visit. It's also a great beach destination, too. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. This city offers something for everyone.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Tours for Seniors to France, The Best Contiki Tours to France, The Best Walking Tours in Croatia, and The Best Luxury Tours to Croatia.

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

Which is Bigger, Biarritz or Split?

Split has a larger population, and is about 5 times larger than the population of Biarritz. When comparing the sizes of Biarritz 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 Biarritz 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 Biarritz or Split in the Summer?

Both Split and Biarritz are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Biarritz for the beaches, 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.

Biarritz is cooler than Split in the summer. The daily temperature in Biarritz averages around 20°C (68°F) in July, 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 Biarritz. Biarritz usually receives less sunshine than Split during summer. Biarritz gets 209 hours of sunny skies, while Split receives 345 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Biarritz usually receives more rain than Split. Biarritz gets 81 mm (3.2 in) of rain, while Split receives 28 mm (1.1 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Biarritz or Split in the Autumn?

Both Split and Biarritz during the autumn are popular places to visit. The autumn months attract visitors to Biarritz 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.

In the autumn, Biarritz is cooler than Split. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Biarritz in October average around 16°C (60°F), and Split averages at about 18°C (64°F).

In Split, it's very sunny this time of the year. In the autumn, Biarritz often gets less sunshine than Split. Biarritz gets 144 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 Biarritz. Biarritz usually gets more rain in October than Split. Biarritz gets 155 mm (6.1 in) of rain, while Split receives 79 mm (3.1 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Biarritz or Split in the Winter?

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

In January, Biarritz is generally around the same temperature as Split. Daily temperatures in Biarritz average around 8°C (47°F), and Split fluctuates around 8°C (47°F).

Biarritz usually receives less sunshine than Split during winter. Biarritz gets 85 hours of sunny skies, while Split receives 128 hours of full sun in the winter.

Biarritz gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In January, Biarritz usually receives more rain than Split. Biarritz gets 183 mm (7.2 in) of rain, while Split receives 83 mm (3.3 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Biarritz or Split in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Biarritz as well as Split. Many travelers come to Biarritz for the beaches and the small town charm. Also, many visitors come to Split in the spring for the beaches and the activities around the city.

Biarritz is cooler than Split in the spring. The daily temperature in Biarritz averages around 12°C (54°F) in April, and Split fluctuates around 15°C (59°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Split. In the spring, Biarritz often gets less sunshine than Split. Biarritz gets 141 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Split receives 212 hours of full sun.

Biarritz receives a lot of rain in the spring. Biarritz usually gets more rain in April than Split. Biarritz gets 163 mm (6.4 in) of rain, while Split receives 66 mm (2.6 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Split and Biarritz