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

Should you visit Bordeaux or Split?

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

Should I visit Bordeaux 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.

Bordeaux

Bordeaux is a charming, romantic, and historical city. It's a large city, so you'll find plenty of things to do around town. 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 touristy, fun-filled, and budget-friendly 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.

Bordeaux and Split: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Bordeaux or Split?

Travelers will generally find more things to do in Split than Bordeaux. While Bordeaux is larger than Split, Split has more sights and attractions for tourists. Split is better known for its museums, nightlife, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, and beaches, while Bordeaux is more popular for its food and impressive beauty. Bordeaux is well known for its world-renowned wine and the many nearby vineyards. Split is well known for its historical sights, high energy coastal setting, and waterfront promenades. Also, Split is famous for Diocletian's Palace.

How is Bordeaux different from Split?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Split is a great destination for its museums and landmarks. Also, Bordeaux is still popular, but not quite as popular for its historical sights.

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.

If you're looking for an educational opportunity, there are a decent number of museums and historical sights around Bordeaux. The city has many historical landmarks and museums to explore. Cathédrale Saint-André, Tour Le Grand-Théâtre, and Basilique Saint-Seurin are all notable monuments that are worth visiting.

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

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

Eat your way through Bordeaux, as it has many local or world renowned restaurants to choose from. Both food and wine are a major draw to this culinary city, which is known for its pastries and rich flavors. Popular local dishes include grilled duck, duck foie gras, and canelés.

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 Bordeaux or Split Better for Nightlife?

Split is a world-class destination for nightlife and partying. Also, Bordeaux is still popular, but not quite as popular 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.

If you're looking for night time activities Bordeaux has a few options to choose from. The city comes to life at night with dance clubs, wine bars, student pubs, and more.

Is Bordeaux or Split Better for Resorts?

Split is a great destination for its resorts. However, Bordeaux 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.

Bordeaux is not a resort destination.

Is Bordeaux or Split Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Split is a great destination for its diving and snorkeling. However, Bordeaux 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.

Bordeaux is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Bordeaux or Split Better for Beaches?

Split is a great destination for the beache. However, Bordeaux 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.

Bordeaux is not a beach destination.

Is Bordeaux or Split Better for its Old Town?

It's fun to wander around the notable old towns in both Bordeaux and Split.

Many people head to Bordeaux to see the old town. The old town is between Cours de l'Intendance and rue Peyronnet. The area has many distinct neighborhoods, monuments, and historical buildings.

Split has an old town worth visiting. 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 Bordeaux or Split?

Shopping is a popular activity in both Split and Bordeaux.

Bordeaux is a popular shopping destination with plenty of stores. The city has a mix of luxury fashion brands, jewelry shops, perfume suppliers, and leather goods. There are department stores, local boutiques, and pedestrian shopping areas that you can explore.

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 Bordeaux or Split Better for Families?

Split is a great destination for its family-friendly activities. Also, Bordeaux is still popular, but not quite as popular for its kid-friendly activities.

Split is a very kid-friendly city. 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.

Bordeaux offers lots of family activities. The city has a number of parks and playgrounds as well as museums, including a kid's science museum. Kids also enjoy splashing around in the Miroir d’eau, which is the world's largest water mirror.

Is Bordeaux or Split Better for Couples?

Split is a world-class destination for its romantic activities. Also, Bordeaux is still popular, but not quite as popular 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.

Bordeaux is a great city if you're traveling as a couple. Wine lovers will enjoy an amazing weekend in this beautiful city. Some of the most romantic activities include wine walks, river cruises, and exploring scenic gardens.

Is Bordeaux or Split Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Split is a world-class destination for backpackers. Also, Bordeaux is still popular, but not quite as popular 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.

Bordeaux is popular with backpackers and budget travelers. There are a handful of hostels and a diversity of activities that backpackers can enjoy.

Is Bordeaux or Split Better for Students?

Bordeaux and Split are superb places to visit for students.

Bordeaux is a very popular city for students and younger travelers. The city has a great student atmosphere and a unique culture with a diversity of activities. It's grown in popularity with students, and the prices have climbed a bit over the past few years.

Split is very popular with students. 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 Bordeaux or Split Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Bordeaux 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 Bordeaux can get you to some places easily. There are buses, trams and a ferry that runs along the river.

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 Bordeaux or Split a more walkable city?

Bordeaux and Split both are superb when exploring on foot.

Bordeaux is a very walkable city. The city has many pedestrian areas and large squares to explore.

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 Bordeaux Worth Visiting? and Is Split Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Split or Bordeaux?

How long in Bordeaux or Split?

It's fun to spend time in either Bordeaux or Split. Generally, people tend to spend more time in Bordeaux due to the larger number of activities and things to do. Usually, 2-5 days is a good amount of time for Bordeaux, and 2-4 days is enough time in Split.

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

In Bordeaux, many people enjoy the shopping and museums that this elegant destination offers. Lots of people come for the food. 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.

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 Bordeaux or Split?

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

Bordeaux is a fun place to experience. In Bordeaux, many people enjoy the nightlife and food that this destination offers. Lots of people come for the food. 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 Bordeaux or Split?

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

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 10-Day Tours from Paris, The Best 2-Week Tours from Paris, The Best Walking Tours in Croatia, and The Best Luxury Tours to Croatia.

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

Which is Bigger, Bordeaux or Split?

Bordeaux has a larger population, and is about 70% larger than the population of Split. When comparing the sizes of Bordeaux 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 Bordeaux 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 Bordeaux or Split in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Bordeaux as well as Split. Most visitors come to Bordeaux for the city activities and the family-friendly experiences during these months. Additionally, the summer months attract visitors to Split because of the beaches, snorkeling, the city activities, and the family-friendly experiences.

Bordeaux is cooler than Split in the summer. The daily temperature in Bordeaux averages around 21°C (69°F) in July, and Split fluctuates around 26°C (80°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Split. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Bordeaux this time of the year. In the summer, Bordeaux often gets less sunshine than Split. Bordeaux gets 276 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Split receives 345 hours of full sun.

Bordeaux usually gets more rain in July than Split. Bordeaux gets 47 mm (1.9 in) of rain, while Split receives 28 mm (1.1 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Bordeaux or Split in the Autumn?

Both Split and Bordeaux are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. The autumn months attract visitors to Bordeaux because of the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area. Also, the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene are the main draw to Split this time of year.

In the autumn, Bordeaux is cooler than Split. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Bordeaux in October average around 14°C (58°F), and Split averages at about 18°C (64°F).

It's quite sunny in Split. Bordeaux usually receives less sunshine than Split during autumn. Bordeaux gets 165 hours of sunny skies, while Split receives 200 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Bordeaux usually receives more rain than Split. Bordeaux gets 88 mm (3.5 in) of rain, while Split receives 79 mm (3.1 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Bordeaux or Split in the Winter?

Both Split and Bordeaux during the winter are popular places to visit. The museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Bordeaux this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Split for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

In January, Bordeaux is generally cooler than Split. Daily temperatures in Bordeaux average around 6°C (43°F), and Split fluctuates around 8°C (47°F).

In the winter, Bordeaux often gets less sunshine than Split. Bordeaux gets 86 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Split receives 128 hours of full sun.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Bordeaux. Bordeaux usually gets more rain in January than Split. Bordeaux gets 100 mm (3.9 in) of rain, while Split receives 83 mm (3.3 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Bordeaux or Split in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Bordeaux and Split. Many travelers come to Bordeaux for the activities around the city and the natural beauty. Also, many visitors come to Split in the spring for the beaches and the activities around the city.

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

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Split this time of the year. Bordeaux usually receives less sunshine than Split during spring. Bordeaux gets 190 hours of sunny skies, while Split receives 212 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Bordeaux usually receives more rain than Split. Bordeaux gets 72 mm (2.8 in) of rain, while Split receives 66 mm (2.6 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Split and Bordeaux