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

Should you visit Caen 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 Caen 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.

Caen

Caen is a park-filled, important, and historic city. It's a large city, so you'll find plenty of things to do around town. Visitors also love the food, museums, and nightlife.

Split

Split is a active, touristy, and fun-filled city. Since it's a large city, you'll find plenty of things to do. Other reasons to visit include beaches, shopping, and museums.

Caen and Split: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Caen or Split?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Split than Caen. It is bigger and it has more sights, attractions, and activities for travelers. Split is more touristy than Caen and is known for its historical sights, high energy coastal setting, and waterfront promenades. It is also well known for Diocletian's Palace. Caen is famous for its role in World War II and its memorials and historical buildings.

How is Caen different from Split?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Spend time exploring the excellent sights and museums in either Caen or Split.

Visitors can fill many days exploring the museums and attractions around Caen. There are many monuments around town commemorating the city's long history. You'll want to see Château de Caen, Pegasus Bridge, Mémorial de Caen, Musée de Normandie, and Musée des beaux-arts de Caen.

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 Caen or Split? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

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

The food selection at local restaurants is excellent in Caen. There's a market that's at its best on Sundays where you'll find fresh produce and other local ingredients. There are also Michelin starred restaurants, seafood restaurants, and other traditional dishes. Head to the Vaugueux Quarter for traditional dishes.

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.

Is Caen or Split Better for Nightlife?

Split is renowned for nightlife. Also, Caen is not quite as popular, but is fairly good 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.

Caen has an active nightlife scene for those who seek it out. The nightlife scene stays active thanks to the 30,000 students living in town. Head to the Rue Ecuyère for a pub crawl or hit up any of the other bars around town.

Is Caen or Split Better for Resorts?

Split is a very popular place for its luxury resorts. However, Caen 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.

Caen is not a resort destination.

Is Caen or Split Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Split is a very popular place for the nearby scuba diving and snorkeling. However, Caen 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.

Caen is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Caen or Split Better for Beaches?

Split is a very popular place for its beaches. However, Caen 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.

Caen is not a beach destination.

Is Caen or Split Better for its Old Town?

Split is a good destination for its historic old town. However, Caen does not have a historic old town.

Split is a good destination for visiting its old town. 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.

Caen does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Caen or Split?

Split is a very popular place for shopping. However, Caen is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

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.

Caen is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Caen or Split Better for Families?

Split is a very popular place for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Caen is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its family-friendly activities.

Split is a very family-friendly destination. 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.

You'll find plenty of kid-friendly things to do in Caen. There are museums, parks, monasteries, and castles that kids and adults alike with enjoy visiting.

Is Caen or Split Better for Couples?

Split is renowned for romance. Also, Caen is not quite as popular, but is fairly good 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.

Caen makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. Couples that are fascinated by history will enjoy a visit to this town in Normandy. There are also abbeys, castles and parks.

Is Caen or Split Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Split is renowned for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Caen is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for backpackers.

Many backpackers frequent 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 Caen. You'll find more apartments and bed and breakfasts than hostels in town, but backpackers still make their way here.

Is Caen or Split Better for Students?

Split is a very popular place for its student-friendly activities. However, Caen 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.

Caen is not popular with students.

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

Caen 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 Caen can get you to some places easily. There are buses and trams that travel throughout the city.

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 Caen or Split a more walkable city?

Split is a very popular place for its walkability. Also, Caen is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its high level of walkability.

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.

Caen is a somewhat walkable place. The city center is best explored on foot.

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

Should I spend more time in Split or Caen?

How long in Caen or Split?

It's fun to spend time in either Caen or Split. Generally, people tend to spend more time in Split due to the larger number of activities and things to do. Usually, 2-3 days is a good amount of time for Caen, and 2-4 days is enough time in Split.

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

In Caen, many people enjoy the nightlife and food that this historic destination offers. 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.

Visitors enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the destination of Split. People usually spend lots of time at the beach. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything.

A weekend in Caen or Split?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Caen. 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 fun place to experience. Most people visit for the nightlife. If you have a weekend, this is a great place to go. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. A weekend is often enough time to do most activities. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

Five days in Caen or Split?

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

You'll find scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping around the touristy destination of Split. This city offers something for everyone. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

A week in Caen or Split?

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

The budget-friendly city of Split offers shopping and museums. You'll find plenty of activities on the beach. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. 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.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best 10-Day Tours in France, The Best One Week (7-Day) Tours in France, The Best Walking Tours in Croatia, and The Best Luxury Tours to Croatia.

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

Which is Bigger, Caen or Split?

Split has a larger population, and is about 59% larger than the population of Caen. When comparing the sizes of Caen 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 Caen 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 Caen or Split in the Summer?

Both Split and Caen are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. The summer months attract visitors to Caen 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, Caen is much colder than Split. Typically, the summer temperatures in Caen in July average around 18°C (64°F), and Split averages at about 26°C (80°F).

It's quite sunny in Split. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Caen. Caen usually receives less sunshine than Split during summer. Caen gets 227 hours of sunny skies, while Split receives 345 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Caen usually receives more rain than Split. Caen gets 48 mm (1.9 in) of rain, while Split receives 28 mm (1.1 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Caen or Split in the Autumn?

Both Split and Caen during the autumn are popular places to visit. The city's sights and attractions are the main draw to Caen this time of year. Furthermore, many travelers come to Split for the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene.

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

In Split, it's very sunny this time of the year. In the autumn, Caen often gets less sunshine than Split. Caen gets 128 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Split receives 200 hours of full sun.

Caen usually gets less rain in October than Split. Caen gets 68 mm (2.7 in) of rain, while Split receives 79 mm (3.1 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Caen or Split in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Caen and Split. Many travelers come to Caen for the museums 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 Caen. Caen is much colder than Split in the winter. The daily temperature in Caen averages around 5°C (41°F) in January, and Split fluctuates around 8°C (47°F).

Caen usually receives less sunshine than Split during winter. Caen gets 70 hours of sunny skies, while Split receives 128 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Caen usually receives less rain than Split. Caen gets 64 mm (2.5 in) of rain, while Split receives 83 mm (3.3 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Caen or Split in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Caen as well as Split. Many visitors come to Caen in the spring for the activities around the city. Additionally, most visitors come to Split for the beaches and the activities around the city during these months.

In the spring, Caen is much colder than Split. Typically, the spring temperatures in Caen in April average around 9°C (49°F), and Split averages at about 15°C (59°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Split. In the spring, Caen often gets less sunshine than Split. Caen gets 171 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Split receives 212 hours of full sun.

Caen usually gets less rain in April than Split. Caen gets 46 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 Caen