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

Should you visit Cambridge 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 Cambridge 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.

Cambridge

Cambridge is a scholarly, charming, and historic university town. This is a charming small with plenty of activities, too. 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 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.

Cambridge and Split: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Cambridge or Split?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Split than Cambridge. It is bigger and it has more sights, attractions, and activities for travelers. Split is very popular for its nightlife, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, historical sights, and big city activities, while Cambridge attracts visitors for its small town charm and impressive beauty. Split is more touristy than Cambridge and is known for its historical sights, high energy coastal setting, and waterfront promenades. It is also well known for Diocletian's Palace. Cambridge is famous for its iconic university and the many colleges associated with it.

How is Cambridge different from Split?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

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

Visitors can fill many days exploring the museums and attractions around Cambridge. The history is rich and impressive in this university town. There are countless museums and architectural sights that you should check out. High on the list are the Cambridge University buildings, The Fitzwilliam Museum, the Bridge of Sighs, The Round Church, and many more.

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 Cambridge or Split? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Both Cambridge and Split offer a number of excellent restaurants to choose from.

The food selection at local restaurants is excellent in Cambridge. You'll find college pubs, local eateries, and fine dining, all in one charming town. Enjoy afternoon tea or fish chips at one of the many local restaurants around town.

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 Cambridge or Split Better for Nightlife?

Split is a must-visit destination for nightlife. Also, Cambridge is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for nightlife and partying.

Split is a world class party destination. 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.

Cambridge has an active nightlife scene for those who seek it out. The nightlife scene is centered around the student culture and you'll find many university pubs, some lively clubs, theaters, and wine bars around town. Whether you're looking for a chill night with friends or a more wild experience, there are options in Cambridge.

Is Cambridge or Split Better for Resorts?

Split is an excellent place to visit for its luxury resorts. However, Cambridge 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.

Cambridge is not a resort destination.

Is Cambridge or Split Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Split is an excellent place to visit for the nearby scuba diving and snorkeling. However, Cambridge 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.

Cambridge is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Cambridge or Split Better for Beaches?

Split is an excellent place to visit for its beaches. However, Cambridge 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.

Cambridge is not a beach destination.

Is Cambridge or Split Better for its Old Town?

Split is a good destination for its historic old town. However, Cambridge 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.

Cambridge does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Cambridge or Split?

Shoppers can find a variety of excellent stores in both Cambridge and Split.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Cambridge. The town offers independent boutique shops, local brands, and a 7 day a week market. The three main shopping areas in town are The Grafton, Lion Yard and Grand Arcade.

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.

Is Cambridge or Split Better for Families?

Split is an excellent place to visit for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Cambridge 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 Cambridge. Kids will enjoy following the Treasure Trail, or climbing to the top of the Great St Mary’s Tower. Punting is another iconic experience. On a rainy day, head to the Sedgwick Museum of Earth Sciences, the Museum of Zoology, or the Cambridge Science Centre.

Is Cambridge or Split Better for Couples?

Split is a must-visit destination for romance. Also, Cambridge 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.

Couples visit Cambridge frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. The quaint town is fun to explore as a couple. Try your hand at punting or take a tour of one of the colleges. You can also enjoy a picnic in the botanical gardens or have tea at the Orchard Tea Garden.

Is Cambridge or Split Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Split is a must-visit destination for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Cambridge 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 Cambridge. With a handful of hostels and a vibrant student population, the town makes for a fun stop on your backpacking trip.

Is Cambridge or Split Better for Students?

Cambridge is terrific for its student-friendly activities. Also, Split is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for students.

Cambridge is a very popular place to visit for students. The town is home to more than 25,000 students who come from 140 different countries. This is one of the most iconic university towns in the world, and there's really no better place for students to visit or reside.

Split is a very popular university town 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 Cambridge or Split Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Visitors will find nice public transit in both Cambridge and Split.

Cambridge has some public transit options. There is a regional bus service that operates through town.

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 Cambridge or Split a more walkable city?

Cambridge 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 Cambridge. Walking is the best way to explore the town.

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 Cambridge Worth Visiting? and Is Split Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Split or Cambridge?

How long in Cambridge or Split?

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

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

In Cambridge, many people enjoy the shopping and museums that this beautiful destination offers. This university town 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 Cambridge or Split?

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

Cambridge is a fun place to experience. Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the destination of Cambridge. 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 touristy 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 Cambridge or Split?

You'll find food and shopping around the scholarly destination of Cambridge. 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 3-Day Tours from London, The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from London, The Best Walking Tours in Croatia, and The Best Luxury Tours to Croatia.

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

Which is Bigger, Cambridge or Split?

Split has a larger population, and is about 37% larger than the population of Cambridge. When comparing the sizes of Cambridge 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.