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

Should you visit Bologna or Split?

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

Which city is more affordable and which is best for your travel style? If you're trying to figure out where to go next, comparing the travel costs between Bologna and Split can help you decide which place is right for you.

Bologna

Bologna is a culinary, beautiful, and fun 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 fun-filled, budget-friendly, and historic 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.

Bologna and Split: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Bologna or Split?

Travelers will generally find more things to do in Split than Bologna. While Bologna is larger than Split, Split has more sights and attractions for tourists. Split is more popular for its museums, nightlife, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, and big city activities, while Bologna is known for its food, historical sights, and impressive beauty. Split is more touristy than Bologna and is popular for its historical sights, high energy coastal setting, and waterfront promenades. It is also home to Diocletian's Palace. Bologna is popular for its Terracota buildings, large international student population, and being the birthplace of Bolognaise pasta.

How is Bologna different from Split?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Split is a well-known place for its sights and museums. Also, Bologna is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its museums and history.

Many visitors head to Split specifically to visit some of its top-rated museums and other sights. 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.

Bologna is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. It has many historical and religious landmarks, active squares, and impressive museums including the Basilica of St. Petronius, St. Stephen Basilica, the Leaning Towers, and the Portico of the Madonna di San Luca.

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

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

Eat your way through Bologna, as it has many local or world renowned restaurants to choose from. Foodies will appreciate the city's well earned culinary reputation. Some people even consider Bologna to be a food capital in Italy. There are cooking classes and food tours around town, as well as many great restaurants that serve up local dishes. Visitors should try Tagliatelle with Ragu (now famously known around the world as Bolognaise), Tortellini in broth, and Mortadella (salami).

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 Bologna or Split Better for Nightlife?

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

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.

Bologna has a large number of nightlife venues. The young population that is filled with international students means that the city has a fun and active nightlife scene. Some of the city's best neighborhoods for nightlife include Centro Storico, where the tourists hang out, the University District, which is perfect for students in their 20s, and Via dell'Indipendenza, which is popular for an upscale evening out.

Is Bologna or Split Better for Resorts?

Split is a well-known place for its resorts. However, Bologna is not a resort destination.

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.

Bologna is not a resort destination.

Is Bologna or Split Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Split is a well-known place for snorkeling and scuba diving. However, Bologna is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

There is a nice variety of marine life that makes scuba diving and snorkeling great in 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.

Bologna is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Bologna or Split Better for Beaches?

Split is a well-known place for the beach. However, Bologna is not a beach destination.

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.

Bologna is not a beach destination.

Is Bologna or Split Better for its Old Town?

Bologna 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 Bologna. The old town is filled with Terracota buildings, which give the city its nickname, La Rossa (The Red).

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 Bologna or Split?

Both Bologna and Split are high quality shopping destinations.

Browsing through shops is a popular activity in Bologna. The city hosts regular open-air markets where you can pick up local produce or local items. It is among the best shopping destinations in the region. For some of the city's best shopping, head to Piazza Maggiore, Mercato di Mezzo, Mercato delle Erbe, or Via Rizzoli.

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 Bologna or Split Better for Families?

Split is a well-known place for its family-friendly activities. Also, Bologna is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its kid-friendly activities.

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.

Bologna is a family-friendly city. There are kid-friendly museums such as Museo Geologico Cappellini and the interactive history museum of Museo della Storia di Bologna. There's even a museum solely dedicated to gelato - Gelato at Carpigiani Museum. If your kids need a bit of time in nature, check out Dulcamara farm or the Botanic Garden. On the weekend you many be able to catch a show at Margherita's Puppet Theatre.

Is Bologna or Split Better for Couples?

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

For those traveling as a couple, Split has plenty to offer. 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.

Bologna is a nice destination for couples. With beautiful museums, interesting architecture. and lively squares, this is a great city for a couple's holiday. It's filled with romance, but it has less tourist crowds than some of Italy's more popular cities.

Is Bologna or Split Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Split is a world-class destination for backpackers. Also, Bologna 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.

Bologna is very popular with the backpacker crowd. It's not a popular as some of the other cities in Italy and Europe, but it still has a number of hostels and a good backpacker scene.

Is Bologna or Split Better for Students?

Bologna is terrific for its student-friendly activities. Also, Split is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for students.

Bologna is a very popular place to visit for students. It's a top study abroad destination in Italy and is home to a few great universities including the well ranked University of Bologna. There are many great activities for students and a variety of fun places to explore.

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.

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

Both Bologna and Split offer good public transit options.

Bologna has a few public transit options. There is an efficient and reliable bus system.

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

Is Bologna or Split a more walkable city?

Bologna and Split both are high quality when exploring on foot.

Bologna is a very walkable destination. Most sights are always within a 30 minute walk, and the city itself is very walkable.

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 Bologna Worth Visiting? and Is Split Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Split or Bologna?

How long in Bologna or Split?

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

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

In Bologna, many people enjoy the shopping and museums that this historical destination offers. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. Lots of people come for the food. 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, 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 Bologna or Split?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Bologna. 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 Bologna or Split?

Bologna is a fun place to experience. Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the destination of Bologna. 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.

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 Bologna or Split?

You'll find food and shopping around the historical destination of Bologna. 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.

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 Budget Tours to Italy, The Best Tours for Seniors to Italy, The Best Walking Tours in Croatia, and The Best Luxury Tours to Croatia.

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

Which is Bigger, Bologna or Split?

Bologna has a larger population, and is about 2 times larger than the population of Split. When comparing the sizes of Bologna 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 Bologna 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 Bologna or Split in the Summer?

Both Split and Bologna during the summer are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Bologna in the summer for the family-friendly experiences. Furthermore, most visitors come to Split for the beaches, snorkeling, the city activities, and the family-friendly experiences during these months.

In July, Bologna is generally cooler than Split. Daily temperatures in Bologna average around 24°C (75°F), and Split fluctuates around 26°C (80°F).

In Split, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Bologna. In the summer, Bologna often gets less sunshine than Split. Bologna gets 316 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Split receives 345 hours of full sun.

Bologna usually gets less rain in July than Split. Bologna gets 23 mm (0.9 in) of rain, while Split receives 28 mm (1.1 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Bologna or Split in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Bologna and Split. Most visitors come to Bologna for the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area during these months. Furthermore, the autumn months attract visitors to Split because of the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene.

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

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Split this time of the year. Bologna usually receives less sunshine than Split during autumn. Bologna gets 177 hours of sunny skies, while Split receives 200 hours of full sun in the autumn.

Bologna gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In October, Bologna usually receives more rain than Split. Bologna gets 123 mm (4.8 in) of rain, while Split receives 79 mm (3.1 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Bologna or Split in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Bologna as well as Split. The winter months attract visitors to Bologna because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Additionally, the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Split this time of year.

The weather in Bologna can be very cold. In the winter, Bologna is much colder than Split. Typically, the winter temperatures in Bologna in January average around 2°C (36°F), and Split averages at about 8°C (47°F).

In the winter, Bologna often gets less sunshine than Split. Bologna gets 105 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Split receives 128 hours of full sun.

Bologna usually gets less rain in January than Split. Bologna gets 75 mm (3 in) of rain, while Split receives 83 mm (3.3 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Bologna or Split in the Spring?

Both Split and Bologna are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. The natural beauty are the main draw to Bologna this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Split for the beaches and the activities around the city.

In April, Bologna is generally cooler than Split. Daily temperatures in Bologna average around 13°C (55°F), and Split fluctuates around 15°C (59°F).

It's quite sunny in Split. Bologna usually receives less sunshine than Split during spring. Bologna gets 192 hours of sunny skies, while Split receives 212 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Bologna usually receives more rain than Split. Bologna 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 Bologna