A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Cannes vs. Split for Food, Nightlife, Resorts, and Couples

Should you visit Cannes or Split?

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

Which city is more affordable and which is best for your travel style? If you're trying to figure out where to go next, comparing the travel costs between Cannes and Split can help you decide which place is right for you.

Cannes

Cannes is a lavish, glitzy, and opulent resort city. The beauty of this spot is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. Visitors also love the live music, food, and scuba diving and snorkeling.

Split

Split is a fun-filled, budget-friendly, and historic city. Because this is such a big city, visitors will find many sights and attractions around town. Other popular activities here include scuba diving and snorkeling, beaches, and shopping.

Cannes and Split: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Cannes or Split?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Split than Cannes, as it is bigger with more sights, attractions, and activities for visitors. Split is more popular for its museums, nightlife, scuba diving & snorkeling, and big city activities, while Cannes is known for its food, music, resorts, historical sights, shopping, and impressive beauty. Cannes is popular for its popularity with celebrities and its role as host for the international film festival. Split is popular for its historical sights, high energy coastal setting, and waterfront promenades. It is also home to Diocletian's Palace.

How is Cannes different from Split?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Split is a well-known place for its sights and museums. However, Cannes does not have museums and landmarks.

Many visitors head to Split specifically to visit some of its top-rated museums and other sights. 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.

Cannes does not have museums and landmarks.

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

Cannes is terrific for its restaurants. Also, Split is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its restaurant scene.

Eat your way through Cannes, as it has many local or world renowned restaurants to choose from. The city is known for its fresh seafood and produce, local markets, and innovative chefs. There are also a number of traditional dishes that you should try in town including bouillabaisse, daube, and farcis niçois.

Dining out in Split is an experience not to be missed. 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 Cannes or Split Better for Nightlife?

Split is an amazing city to visit for its evening party scene. Also, Cannes is not as famous, but is still a good resort city to visit for nightlife.

Split has a colorful and one-of-a-kind nightlife scene. 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.

Cannes has a large number of nightlife venues. The nightlife scene is all about the glamour and prestige that this city is known for. There are exclusive nightclubs and luxury cocktail bars where the goal is to see and be seen. Parties last late into the night and the glitz and glamour fill the streets.

Is Cannes or Split Better for Music?

Cannes is terrific for its live music scene. However, Split is not a live music destination.

With so many music venues, you're guaranteed a show any night of the week in Cannes. The city is famous for its music festivals, but there are also many bands, DJs, and performers who visit year round.

Split is not a live music destination.

Is Cannes or Split Better for Resorts?

Cannes is terrific for its luxury resorts. Also, Split is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its resorts.

Vacationers flock to Cannes for its luxury resorts. The city is filled with luxury resorts and elegant hotels. Among the best are Hôtel Martinez, Hôtel Barrière Le Majestic, and Five Seas Hotel.

Split is known as a popular and fun resort destination. 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.

Is Cannes or Split Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Split is a well-known place for snorkeling and scuba diving. Also, Cannes is not as famous, but is still a good resort city to visit for the nearby scuba diving and snorkeling.

There is a nice variety of marine life that makes scuba diving and snorkeling great in 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.

Cannes has a few areas where visitors often go scuba diving or snorkeling. You can arrange scuba diving and snorkeling trips from a few vendors in town. You might see sponges, sea slugs octopus, cuttlefish, lobsters and even stingrays.

Is Cannes or Split Better for Beaches?

Cannes and Split are high quality choices for a beach vacation.

Cannes is a very popular place to visit for its beaches. You can choose from both public and private beaches in the area. You'll find more amenities and convenience at the private beaches which are closer to La Croisette (the main promenade in town). These beaches also come with a price tag attached. The public beaches have a more relaxed and natural vibe but are a little less convenient to get to.

You'll have a great beach vacation in Split. 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.

Is Cannes or Split Better for its Old Town?

Cannes 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 Cannes. Known as Le Suquet, the old town has many historic landmarks including the the Château de la Castre. There are also cobblestone streets and many great restaurants around town.

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 Cannes or Split?

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

Known for shopping, Cannes draws large crowds to its stores. With its many affluent visitors, the shopping scene in town is filled with luxury brands and posh boutiques. Perfume and porcelain are both popular things to buy in the area.

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 Cannes or Split Better for Families?

Split is a well-known place for its family-friendly activities. Also, Cannes is not as famous, but is still a good resort city to visit for its kid-friendly activities.

Split is known to be a very family-friendly place to visit. 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.

Cannes is a family-friendly resort city. Most people associate the city with the film festival and late night partying, but there are also kid-friendly restaurants, fun beach activities, and plenty of kid-friendly entertainment along La Croisette Boulevard. Make sure you check out the Grand Carousel and the many playgrounds around town.

Is Cannes or Split Better for Couples?

Both Cannes and Split are first-rate destinations to visit as a couple.

For those traveling as a couple, Cannes has plenty to offer. It's grand hotels and luxury beach clubs make this a perfect romantic destination. There are world class restaurants, a vibrant nightlife scene, and many romantic spots around town that make for a memorable honeymoon or couple's getaway.

Split has so much to offer for a romantic couple's vacation. 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.

Is Cannes or Split Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Split is an amazing city to visit for backpackers. However, Cannes is not a good resort city for backpackers and budget travelers.

Split is a very popular city to visit for backpackers. 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.

Cannes is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. It's more famous for it's celebrity jetsetters than young budget travelers, but there are still several hostels and budget accommodation options tucked away in town.

Is Cannes or Split Better for Students?

Split is a well-known place for students. However, Cannes is not popular with students.

Split is very popular with students. 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.

Cannes is not popular with students.

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

Both Cannes and Split offer good public transit options.

Cannes has a few public transit options. There are buses that travel around the city.

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

Is Cannes or Split a more walkable city?

Cannes and Split both are high quality when exploring on foot.

Cannes is a very walkable destination. Many areas are easily explored on foot including the historic areas and the coastline.

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.

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

Should I spend more time in Split or Cannes?

How long in Cannes or Split?

It's fun to spend time in either Cannes or Split. In our opinion, Split has more to see and do, so we recommend spending more time in Split than Cannes. However, 2-4 days is a good amount of time to spend in either destination.

Families should spend more time in Split than Cannes. 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 Cannes than Split. You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in Cannes that are great for a weekend getaway or a longer couple's trip.

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Split than Cannes 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 Cannes or Split?

In Cannes, many people enjoy the live music and food that this glitzy destination offers. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. This resort 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.

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 Cannes or Split?

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

Cannes is a fun place to experience. Travelers enjoy the scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping when visiting the destination of Cannes. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. 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 Cannes or Split?

You'll find shopping and nightlife around the lavish destination of Cannes. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. 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 historic 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 Bicycle Tours in France, Tours for Outdoor and Nature Lovers in France, The Best Walking Tours in Croatia, and The Best Luxury Tours to Croatia.

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

Which is Bigger, Cannes or Split?

Split has a larger population, and is about 3 times larger than the population of Cannes. When comparing the sizes of Cannes 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 Cannes 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 Cannes or Split in the Summer?

Both Split and Cannes during the summer are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Cannes in the summer for the beaches, snorkeling, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences. Furthermore, most visitors come to Split for the beaches, snorkeling, the city activities, and the family-friendly experiences during these months.

In July, Cannes is generally cooler than Split. Daily temperatures in Cannes average around 23°C (73°F), and Split fluctuates around 26°C (80°F).

Cannes usually gets less rain in July than Split. Cannes gets 16 mm (0.6 in) of rain, while Split receives 28 mm (1.1 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Cannes or Split in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Cannes and Split. Most visitors come to Cannes for the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area during these months. Furthermore, the autumn months attract visitors to Split because of the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene.

Cannes is around the same temperature as Split in the autumn. The daily temperature in Cannes averages around 17°C (63°F) in October, and Split fluctuates around 18°C (64°F).

Cannes gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In October, Cannes usually receives more rain than Split. Cannes gets 108 mm (4.3 in) of rain, while Split receives 79 mm (3.1 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Cannes or Split in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Cannes as well as Split. The winter months attract visitors to Cannes because of the shopping scene and the cuisine. Additionally, the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Split this time of year.

In the winter, Cannes is around the same temperature as Split. Typically, the winter temperatures in Cannes in January average around 9°C (48°F), and Split averages at about 8°C (47°F).

Cannes usually gets around the same amount of rain in January as Split. Cannes gets 83 mm (3.3 in) of rain, while Split receives 83 mm (3.3 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Cannes or Split in the Spring?

Both Split and Cannes are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. The beaches and the natural beauty are the main draw to Cannes this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Split for the beaches and the activities around the city.

In April, Cannes is generally cooler than Split. Daily temperatures in Cannes average around 13°C (56°F), and Split fluctuates around 15°C (59°F).

In April, Cannes usually receives around the same amount of rain as Split. Cannes gets 62 mm (2.4 in) of rain, while Split receives 66 mm (2.6 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Split and Cannes