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

Should you visit Brussels 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 Brussels 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.

Brussels

Brussels is a historic, cosmopolitan, and authentic city. With plenty of activities and things to do, it's a huge city that draws plenty of visitors. Visitors also love the food, shopping, and museums.

Split

Split is a active, touristy, and fun-filled city. Since it's a large city, you'll find plenty of things to do. It's also known for nightlife, food, and scuba diving and snorkeling.

Brussels and Split: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Brussels or Split?

Travelers will generally find more things to do in Split than Brussels. While Brussels is larger than Split, Split has more sights and attractions for tourists. Split is very popular for its nightlife, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, and beaches, while Brussels attracts visitors for its historical sights, shopping, and big city activities. Split is more touristy than Brussels and is popular for its historical sights, high energy coastal setting, and waterfront promenades. It is also well known for Diocletian's Palace. Brussels is famous for its beautiful architecture, grand squares, diverse population, and delicious waffles.

How is Brussels different from Split?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Both Brussels and Split have excellent landmarks and museums for visitors.

Visitors can fill many days exploring the museums and attractions around Brussels. Popular sights include Saint-Michel Cathedral, Place Royale, and the Belgian Royal Museum of Fine Arts. The city is filled with impressive architecture, fascinating art museums, and innovative science and technology museums.

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 Brussels or Split? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

There are opportunities to sample the local cuisine at excellent restaurants in both Brussels and Split.

With its innovative style combined with traditional elements, Brussels makes for a great culinary experience. While the city is most known for its waffles and fries, the diversity of dishes and international restaurant selection continues to grow. There are Lebanese, Japanese, and Indian restaurants among others. Popular local dishes include moules-frites, waterzooi (a stew), and stoemp (made with mashed potatoes and vegetables).

Split has a huge number of terrific restaurants. 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 Brussels or Split Better for Nightlife?

Split is renowned for nightlife. Also, Brussels is still popular, but not quite as popular for nightlife and partying.

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.

If you're looking for night time activities Brussels has a few options to choose from. The city's nightlife is quieter and more mellow than some other major cities around Europe. That doesn't mean there aren't plenty of dance clubs and bars where you can hang out. Keep your wits about you after the sun goes down as some areas are a bit rougher than others.

Is Brussels or Split Better for Resorts?

Split is well known for its resorts. However, Brussels 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.

Brussels is not a resort destination.

Is Brussels or Split Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Split is well known for the nearby scuba diving and snorkeling. However, Brussels 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.

Brussels is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Brussels or Split Better for Beaches?

Split is well known for its beaches. However, Brussels 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.

Brussels is not a beach destination.

Is Brussels or Split Better for its Old Town?

Brussels 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 Brussels. The old town in the city center is where you'll find the greatest concentration of historic sights. The area is surrounded by tree-lined boulevards and is easy to explore.

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 Brussels or Split?

Brussels is terrific for its shopping opportunities. Also, Split is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its shopping areas.

Known for shopping, Brussels draws large crowds to its stores. Although it's famous for diamonds, the city also has many shopping streets where you can find designer brands, vintage shops, and other unique boutiques that are fun to explore.

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 Brussels or Split Better for Families?

Both Brussels and Split are excellent family-friendly destinations.

Brussels is a very family-friendly place to visit. The city has a number of unique kid-friendly activities including a Mini-Europe Museum, a Comic Strip Museum, and Train World. The city is also a chocolate lover's dream with many factories and chocolate shops around town.

Because of its large number of kid-friendly activities, Split is very family-friendly. 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 Brussels or Split Better for Couples?

Split is renowned for romance. Also, Brussels is still popular, but not quite as popular for its romantic activities.

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.

Brussels is a great city if you're traveling as a couple. From beautiful buildings and museums to shopping, dining, and chocolate shops, there are plenty of romantic spots around town. There's a vibrant nightlife scene and many diverse restaurants that couples can enjoy exploring.

Is Brussels or Split Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Split is renowned for backpackers. Also, Brussels is still popular, but not quite as popular for backpackers and budget travelers.

Split is a mecca for backpackers and 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.

Many backpackers visit Brussels. The city has an active nightlife and a number of hostels that are great for backpackers, but do take note that some areas can get a bit rough at night, so make sure you understand where you are.

Is Brussels or Split Better for Students?

Brussels and Split are excellent places to visit for students.

Many students visit Brussels. The city has a number of universities that attract students from around the world. The multicultural setting is great for students of the world.

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

Brussels is terrific for times when you don't have a car. Also, Split is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its public transit.

The thorough and effecient public transit system of Brussels can take you anywhere. Transit options include train, tram, metro, bus, and waterbuses.

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 Brussels or Split a more walkable city?

Brussels and Split both are excellent when exploring on foot.

Brussels is very walkable. If you stay in the historical area, it's easy to walk around and many boulevards are being converted to pedestrian areas.

Split is a very walkable city. 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 Brussels Worth Visiting? and Is Split Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Split or Brussels?

How long in Brussels or Split?

It's fun to spend time in either Brussels or Split. Generally, people tend to spend more time in Brussels due to the larger number of activities and things to do. Usually, 1-5 days is a good amount of time for Brussels, and 2-4 days is enough time in Split.

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

Each neighborhood in Brussels has its own distinct appeal, so there are pleny of areas to explore. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. Lots of people come for the shopping. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Because of this, one day is usually enough time for a trip here.

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 Brussels or Split?

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

Brussels is a fun place to experience. Each neighborhood in Brussels has its own distinct appeal, so there are pleny of areas to explore. Lots of people come for the shopping. Visiting the old town is also a must. 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 Brussels or Split?

You'll find food and shopping around the historic big city of Brussels. 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 shopping. 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 Cultural Tours in Belgium, The Best Luxury Tours to Belgium, The Best Walking Tours in Croatia, and The Best Luxury Tours to Croatia.

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

Which is Bigger, Brussels or Split?

Brussels has a larger population, and is about 6 times larger than the population of Split. When comparing the sizes of Brussels 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 Brussels 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 Brussels or Split in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Brussels as well as Split. The summer months attract visitors to Brussels because of the city activities and 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 the summer, Brussels is cooler than Split. Typically, the summer temperatures in Brussels in July average around 18°C (65°F), and Split averages at about 26°C (80°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Split. In the summer, Brussels often gets less sunshine than Split. Brussels gets 186 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Split receives 345 hours of full sun.

Brussels usually gets more rain in July than Split. Brussels gets 75 mm (3 in) of rain, while Split receives 28 mm (1.1 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Brussels or Split in the Autumn?

Both Split and Brussels are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. The city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene are the main draw to Brussels this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Split for the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene.

In October, Brussels is generally cooler than Split. Daily temperatures in Brussels average around 12°C (54°F), and Split fluctuates around 18°C (64°F).

It's quite sunny in Split. Brussels usually receives less sunshine than Split during autumn. Brussels gets 114 hours of sunny skies, while Split receives 200 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Brussels usually receives less rain than Split. Brussels gets 70 mm (2.8 in) of rain, while Split receives 79 mm (3.1 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Brussels or Split in the Winter?

Both Split and Brussels during the winter are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Brussels for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Furthermore, 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 Brussels. Brussels is much colder than Split in the winter. The daily temperature in Brussels averages around 3°C (38°F) in January, and Split fluctuates around 8°C (47°F).

In the winter, Brussels often gets less sunshine than Split. Brussels gets 49 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Split receives 128 hours of full sun.

Brussels usually gets less rain in January than Split. Brussels gets 67 mm (2.6 in) of rain, while Split receives 83 mm (3.3 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Brussels or Split in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Brussels and Split. Many visitors come to Brussels in the spring for the activities around the city. Furthermore, most visitors come to Split for the beaches and the activities around the city during these months.

In the spring, Brussels is much colder than Split. Typically, the spring temperatures in Brussels in April average around 10°C (49°F), and Split averages at about 15°C (59°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Split this time of the year. Brussels usually receives less sunshine than Split during spring. Brussels gets 147 hours of sunny skies, while Split receives 212 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Brussels usually receives less rain than Split. Brussels gets 57 mm (2.2 in) of rain, while Split receives 66 mm (2.6 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Split and Brussels