A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Bruges vs. Split for Nightlife, Old Town, Couples, and Backpackers

Should you visit Bruges or Split?

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

Which city should you visit? Read on to compare the activities as well as the prices of travel for Bruges and Split. We'll break down costs for accommodation, food, transportation and more to help you learn more about these two destinations. Then, you can figure out if either of these two places are accessible based on your travel budget, schedule, and interests. So, let's dig into it.

Bruges

Bruges is a historic, cultural, and beautiful city. It's considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. It also has a unique and quaint vibe that attracts lots of visitors. Visitors also love the food, shopping, and museums.

Split

Split is a active, touristy, and fun-filled city. Because this is such a big city, visitors will find many sights and attractions around town. It's also popular because of the museums, nightlife, and food.

Bruges and Split: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Bruges or Split?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Split than Bruges, as it is bigger with more sights, attractions, and activities for visitors. Split is more popular for its nightlife, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, shopping, and big city activities, while Bruges is known for its historical sights, impressive beauty, and quaint atmosphere. Bruges is popular for its scenic old town, charming streets, local chocolate, and unique Christmas market. Split is popular for its historical sights, high energy coastal setting, and waterfront promenades. It is also home to Diocletian's Palace.

How is Bruges different from Split?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

You'll find a number of excellent museums and attractions in both Split and Bruges.

Visitors can fill many days exploring the museums and attractions around Bruges. The city is filled with charming hidden corners as well as notable landmarks. The main square is Bruges' Markt which is where you'll find the the Belfry Tower. Other must-see sights include the Historium, Groeninge Museum, the Town Hall, and Brugse Vrije Museum.

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.

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

Both Bruges and Split offer excellent local cuisine and restaurants.

Bruges has a number of nationally recognized food spots and restaurants. From its world class breweries to its famous chocolate shops, there is plenty to eat and drink around town. In the old town prices can be a bit high, but the dishes and atmosphere are great. Popular local dishes include Belgian waffles, fries, mussels, and beef stew.

With its innovative style combined with traditional elements, Split makes for a great culinary experience. 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 Bruges or Split Better for Nightlife?

Split is very popular for its evening party scene. Also, Bruges is not as popular, but is still a nice city 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.

There's a variety of activities in the evening in Bruges. It's famous for its beer and breweries, so you'll find a number of places to gather in the evening. There is a lack of nightclubs, so if dancing and partying hard is your style, then this may not be your place. The vibes are generally chill and relaxed at night. Most places are concentrated around old town or near Kuipersstraat or Zilverstraat.

Is Bruges or Split Better for Resorts?

Split is great for its luxury resorts. However, Bruges is not a resort destination.

There are plenty of resorts in Split to choose from. 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.

Bruges is not a resort destination.

Is Bruges or Split Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Split is great for snorkeling and scuba diving. However, Bruges is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

There are many scuba diving and snorkeling spots near 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.

Bruges is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Bruges or Split Better for Beaches?

Split is great for the beach. However, Bruges is not a beach destination.

Many people visit Split for it's beautiful 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.

Bruges is not a beach destination.

Is Bruges or Split Better for its Old Town?

Bruges is terrific for its old town. Also, Split is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its historic old town charm.

Bruges has a unique history which comes to life in its historic area. The old town is the main attraction, with its quaint cobblestone streets and beautiful brick architecture.

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 Bruges or Split?

Split is great for its shopping areas. Also, Bruges is not as popular, but is still a nice city for shopping.

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.

Bruges is a great destination for shopping. The city offers plenty of shopping, whether you're looking for souvenirs, trendy European brands, or local items. It's more geared towards tourists than locals, and you want find the same diversity that you get in some of the larger nearby cities, but you'll find unique lace items and other local goods in the old town. The streets around Markt Square, Steenstraat, Geld Monstraat, and Jakobstraat are the main shopping areas.

Is Bruges or Split Better for Families?

Split is great for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Bruges is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its family-friendly activities.

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.

Bruges is a family-friendly place to visit. Kids will enjoy sampling the unique chocolate around town, eating their fill of waffles, and getting their energy out in the park or at a local playground. There are also canal boat tours and horse drawn carriage rides that are fun for the whole family.

Is Bruges or Split Better for Couples?

Split is very popular for couples. Also, Bruges is not as popular, but is still a nice city for romance.

Split is fantastic couple's destination with fun and romantic activities. 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.

Bruges is a very popular place to visit for couples. This romantic city has amazing restaurants, charming streets, and impressive architecture. Couples will enjoy exploring the canals by boat or taking a horse drawn carriage ride through the old town. There are also a number of cute bed and breakfasts where you can stay.

Is Bruges or Split Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Split is very popular for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Bruges is not as popular, but is still a nice city for backpackers.

A large number of backpackers visit Split, as it is a very popular city for budget travelers. 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.

Backpackers come from all over to visit Bruges. There are a few good hostels around town. The city sees its share of tourists, but many arrive as part of tours or river boat cruises. If you stay in a hostel, you shouldn't have trouble meeting other young travelers though. There are also plenty of well known breweries where you can gather with friends.

Is Bruges or Split Better for Students?

Split is great for its student-friendly activities. However, Bruges is not popular with students.

Many students visit 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.

Bruges is not popular with students.

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

Bruges and Split both offer good public transit to get you around.

While Bruges offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. There is a bus system that connects the train station to the old town. Otherwise, the city is best explored on foot.

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

Is Bruges or Split a more walkable city?

Bruges 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 Bruges. The train station is a short walk from the old town but the city is very walkable and best explored 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 Bruges Worth Visiting? and Is Split Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Split or Bruges?

How long in Bruges or Split?

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

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

In Bruges, many people enjoy the shopping and museums that this cultural 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.

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 Bruges or Split?

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

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 Bruges or Split?

Bruges is a fun place to experience. Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the quaint destination of Bruges. Visiting the old town is also a must. 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 Bruges or Split?

You'll find food and shopping around the charming destination of Bruges. 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.

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the budget-friendly 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 Cultural Tours in Belgium, The Best Luxury Tours to Belgium, The Best Walking Tours in Croatia, and The Best Luxury Tours to Croatia.

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

Which is Bigger, Bruges or Split?

Split has a larger population, and is about 51% larger than the population of Bruges. When comparing the sizes of Bruges 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 Bruges 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 Bruges or Split in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Bruges and Split. The summer months attract visitors to Bruges because of the family-friendly experiences. Also, the beaches, snorkeling, the city activities, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Split this time of year.

In July, Bruges is generally much colder than Split. Daily temperatures in Bruges average around 17°C (63°F), and Split fluctuates around 26°C (80°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Split this time of the year. In Bruges, it's very sunny this time of the year. Bruges usually receives less sunshine than Split during summer. Bruges gets 202 hours of sunny skies, while Split receives 345 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Bruges usually receives more rain than Split. Bruges gets 66 mm (2.6 in) of rain, while Split receives 28 mm (1.1 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Bruges or Split in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Bruges as well as Split. The shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Bruges this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Split for the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene.

Bruges is cooler than Split in the autumn. The daily temperature in Bruges averages around 12°C (54°F) in October, and Split fluctuates around 18°C (64°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Split. In the autumn, Bruges often gets less sunshine than Split. Bruges gets 105 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Split receives 200 hours of full sun.

Bruges usually gets around the same amount of rain in October as Split. Bruges gets 78 mm (3.1 in) of rain, while Split receives 79 mm (3.1 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Bruges or Split in the Winter?

Both Split and Bruges are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Bruges for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, many visitors come to Split in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Be prepared for some very cold days in Bruges. In the winter, Bruges is much colder than Split. Typically, the winter temperatures in Bruges in January average around 3°C (38°F), and Split averages at about 8°C (47°F).

Bruges usually receives less sunshine than Split during winter. Bruges gets 47 hours of sunny skies, while Split receives 128 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Bruges usually receives less rain than Split. Bruges gets 59 mm (2.3 in) of rain, while Split receives 83 mm (3.3 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Bruges or Split in the Spring?

Both Split and Bruges during the spring are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Bruges in the spring for the natural beauty. Furthermore, most visitors come to Split for the beaches and the activities around the city during these months.

In April, Bruges is generally much colder than Split. Daily temperatures in Bruges average around 8°C (47°F), and Split fluctuates around 15°C (59°F).

In Split, it's very sunny this time of the year. In the spring, Bruges often gets less sunshine than Split. Bruges gets 158 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Split receives 212 hours of full sun.

Bruges usually gets less rain in April than Split. Bruges gets 45 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while Split receives 66 mm (2.6 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Split and Bruges