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

Should you visit Bucharest 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 Bucharest 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.

Bucharest

Bucharest is a undiscovered, cultural, and charming city. It's a large city, so you'll find plenty of things to do around town. Visitors also love the food, shopping, and museums.

Split

Split is a active, touristy, and fun-filled 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.

Bucharest and Split: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Bucharest or Split?

Travelers will generally find more things to do in Split than Bucharest. While Bucharest is larger than Split, Split has more sights and attractions for tourists. Split is more touristy than Bucharest and is popular for its historical sights, high energy coastal setting, and waterfront promenades. Also, Split is famous for Diocletian's Palace. Bucharest is well known for its wide avenues and longstanding religious institutions.

How is Bucharest different from Split?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Split is well known for its museums and landmarks. Also, Bucharest is still popular, but not quite as popular for its historical sights.

Visitors can fill many days exploring the museums and attractions around Split. 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 Bucharest. The city is rich in landmarks and historical buildings. Popular sights include the Romanian Athenaeum, the Palace of the Parliament, Stavropoleos Church, and Curtea Veche.

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

Split is well known for its restaurant scene. Also, Bucharest is still popular, but not quite as popular for its local flavors and cuisine.

Eating is part of the travel experience when you visit Split. 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.

Bucharest is becoming an appealing option for foodies. Many Romanian recipes have been passed down through the generations and they still use traditional flavors. You'll see some German or Hungarian influences, but the flavors are still uniquely Romanian. Popular dishes include ciorba (tripe soup), cabbage rolls, and mici (grilled meat rolls).

Is Bucharest or Split Better for Nightlife?

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

If you're looking for night time activities Bucharest has a few options to choose from. The city has come to life with its party scene, with many bars and clubs that you can choose from. There are rooftop bars, chic dance clubs, and cozy pubs where you can pass the evening. You'll find most of the upscale clubs in the northern part of the city, with a more casual scene found in the downtown areas around Universitate and Romanā.

Is Bucharest or Split Better for Resorts?

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

Bucharest is not a resort destination.

Is Bucharest or Split Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Split is well known for its diving and snorkeling. However, Bucharest 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.

Bucharest is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Bucharest or Split Better for Beaches?

Split is well known for the beache. However, Bucharest 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.

Bucharest is not a beach destination.

Is Bucharest or Split Better for its Old Town?

Visitors enjoy the notable old town areas in both Bucharest and Split.

Many people head to Bucharest to see the old town. The old town dates back to the 15th and 16th centuries, with much of the historical charm seen in the architecture. Many of the buildings have been restored, but others are still awaiting repairs. This gives the area a sense of authenticity that you often miss in other old towns.

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 Bucharest or Split?

Split is well known for its shopping opportunities. Also, Bucharest is still popular, but not quite as popular for its shopping areas.

Split is a popular shopping destination with plenty of stores. 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.

Bucharest has a variety of shopping areas worth visiting. The residents love fashion, and you'll find many shopping centers around town where you can find a good deal. In addition to the many malls, there are also antique shops, flea markets and boutique clothing stores where you might find a hidden gem.

Is Bucharest or Split Better for Families?

Split is well known for its family-friendly activities. However, Bucharest is not particularly known 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.

For families, Bucharest is not always the best place to visit. Kid-friendly activities include kid's play areas, museums such as the Museum of the Senses, and water centered activities like rowing in the park or visiting the wellness center Therme.

Is Bucharest or Split Better for Couples?

Split is renowned for its romantic activities. However, Bucharest is not particularly known for couples.

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.

Bucharest is not always the best place to visit for a couple. The city has some romantic settings such as wandering down Victory Avenue or exploring the historic Cotroceni Neighbourhood. There are also several gardens and a number of nice cafes to explore.

Is Bucharest or Split Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Split is renowned for backpackers. Also, Bucharest 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.

Plenty of budget travelers visit Bucharest. The city is affordable, but it's often overlooked by backpackers. Part of the charm for many is the sense of authenticity that can often be hard to find in travel these days.

Is Bucharest or Split Better for Students?

Split is well known for students. However, Bucharest 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.

Bucharest is not popular with students.

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

Bucharest 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 Bucharest can get you to some places easily. Public transit options include trams, buses, and trolley buses.

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 Bucharest or Split a more walkable city?

Split is well known for its high level of walkability. Also, Bucharest is still popular, but not quite as popular for its ease of walking around.

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.

Bucharest is a somewhat walkable city. Many of the tourist attractions are within a walkable area.

For even more information, also check out Is Bucharest Worth Visiting? and Is Split Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Split or Bucharest?

How long in Bucharest or Split?

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

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

In Bucharest, many people enjoy the shopping and museums that this charming destination offers. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Because of this, one day is usually enough time for a trip here.

You'll find nightlife and food around the city of Split. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

A weekend in Bucharest or Split?

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

You'll find food and scuba diving and snorkeling around the historic destination of Split. People usually spend lots of time at the beach. This is a popular place to visit for a weekend.A weekend should give you a good understanding of everything this city has to offer. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from.

Five days in Bucharest or Split?

Bucharest is a fun place to experience. Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the destination of Bucharest. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything.

Travelers enjoy the scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping when visiting the historic city of Split. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. It's also a relaxing resort destination. Most people head to the area for the nightlife. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

A week in Bucharest or Split?

You'll find food and shopping around the cultural destination of Bucharest. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

Split is a popular choice for travelers. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. One week 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. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Bucharest, The Best Family-Friendly Tours to Romania, The Best Walking Tours in Croatia, and The Best Luxury Tours to Croatia.

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

Which is Bigger, Bucharest or Split?

Bucharest has a larger population, and is about 10 times larger than the population of Split. When comparing the sizes of Bucharest 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 Bucharest 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 Bucharest or Split in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Bucharest as well as Split. The summer months attract visitors to Bucharest 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.

Bucharest is cooler than Split in the summer. The daily temperature in Bucharest averages around 23°C (73°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 Bucharest this time of the year. In the summer, Bucharest often gets less sunshine than Split. Bucharest gets 289 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Split receives 345 hours of full sun.

Bucharest usually gets more rain in July than Split. Bucharest gets 64 mm (2.5 in) of rain, while Split receives 28 mm (1.1 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Bucharest or Split in the Autumn?

Both Split and Bucharest 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 Bucharest this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Split for the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene.

In the autumn, Bucharest is cooler than Split. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Bucharest in October average around 13°C (55°F), and Split averages at about 18°C (64°F).

It's quite sunny in Split. Bucharest usually receives less sunshine than Split during autumn. Bucharest gets 177 hours of sunny skies, while Split receives 200 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Bucharest usually receives less rain than Split. Bucharest gets 32 mm (1.3 in) of rain, while Split receives 79 mm (3.1 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Bucharest or Split in the Winter?

Both Split and Bucharest during the winter are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Bucharest 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 Bucharest. In January, Bucharest is generally much colder than Split. Daily temperatures in Bucharest average around -1°C (29°F), and Split fluctuates around 8°C (47°F).

In the winter, Bucharest often gets less sunshine than Split. Bucharest gets 71 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Split receives 128 hours of full sun.

Bucharest usually gets less rain in January than Split. Bucharest gets 40 mm (1.6 in) of rain, while Split receives 83 mm (3.3 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Bucharest or Split in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Bucharest and Split. Many visitors come to Bucharest 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.

Bucharest is cooler than Split in the spring. The daily temperature in Bucharest averages around 12°C (54°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. Bucharest usually receives less sunshine than Split during spring. Bucharest gets 185 hours of sunny skies, while Split receives 212 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Bucharest usually receives less rain than Split. Bucharest gets 46 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while Split receives 66 mm (2.6 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Split and Bucharest