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

Should you visit Cape Sounion or Split?

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

Should I visit Cape Sounion or Split? This is a common question asked by many travelers. By figuring out which city has activities that align with your interests along with knowing which is more affordable, you'll understand where you can get more bang for your buck. So, let's dive into the details and the data, which all comes from actual travelers.

Cape Sounion

Cape Sounion is a iconic, impressive, and spectacular destination. It's a beautiful place to visit, too. Visitors also love the beaches, museums, and food.

Split

Split is a touristy, fun-filled, and budget-friendly city. Because this is such a big city, visitors will find many sights and attractions around town. It's also popular because of the museums, nightlife, and food.

Cape Sounion and Split: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Popular beach
  • Family-friendly
  • Home to the Temple of Poseidon
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for nightlife
  • Less popular with couples
  • Less popular with backpackers
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Nice resorts
  • Good scuba and snorkeling destination
  • Popular beach
  • Scenic old town
  • Fun shopping
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good for students


Is there more to do in Cape Sounion or Split?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Split. Although Cape Sounion and Split are both popular with visitors, Split has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Split is more popular for its food, nightlife, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, historical sights, shopping, and big city activities, while Cape Sounion is known for its museums and impressive beauty. Split is more touristy than Cape Sounion and is known for its historical sights, high energy coastal setting, and waterfront promenades. It is also home to Diocletian's Palace. Cape Sounion is popular for its link to Greek mythology and its stunningly beautiful sunsets.

How is Cape Sounion different from Split?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Cape Sounion or Split?

Cape Sounion
Split

Cape Sounion is terrific for its museums and history. Also, Split is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its museums and landmarks.

The museums and tourist attractions in Cape Sounion are world-renowned. The Temple of Poseidon is the main attraction here, but also nearby you'll find the Temple of Athena. The views, history, and connection to mythology fascinates most visitors who consider this to be a spectacular sight.

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 Cape Sounion or Split? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Cape Sounion
Split

Split is an excellent place to visit for its restaurants. Also, Cape Sounion is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its restaurant scene.

Split has a number of nationally recognized food spots and 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.

Cape Sounion offers number of good local restaurants to choose from. There are cafes as well as fine dining restaurants which are mostly located in hotels. Seafood is the cuisine of choice with many delicious Greek dishes available.

Is Cape Sounion or Split Better for Nightlife?

Cape Sounion
Split

Split is very popular for its evening party scene. However, Cape Sounion is lacking in options for nightlife.

Split is a party destination, and you'll find plenty of activity all night long. 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.

Cape Sounion is generally a quiet destination but there are options around. There are some bars and lounges that are connected to hotels. If you're spending the night, these are nice places to enjoy a drink in a beautiful setting.

Is Cape Sounion or Split Better for Resorts?

Cape Sounion
Split

Split is an excellent place to visit for its luxury resorts. However, Cape Sounion is not a resort destination.

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.

Cape Sounion is not a resort destination.


Is Cape Sounion or Split Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Cape Sounion
Split

Split is an excellent place to visit for snorkeling and scuba diving. However, Cape Sounion is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Many visitors partake in scuba diving or snorkeing while visiting 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.

Cape Sounion is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Cape Sounion or Split Better for Beaches?

Cape Sounion
Split

Split is an excellent place to visit for the beach. Also, Cape Sounion is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its beaches.

Split is considered a top beach destination. 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.

Many people head to Cape Sounion to enjoy the beach. If you allow enough time, there are a couple of beaches where you can swim while enjoying views of the temple.

Is Cape Sounion or Split Better for its Old Town?

Cape Sounion
Split

Split is a popular place for its historic old town charm. However, Cape Sounion does not have a historic old town.

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.

Cape Sounion does not have a historic old town.


Is the Shopping Better in Cape Sounion or Split?

Cape Sounion
Split

Split is an excellent place to visit for its shopping areas. However, Cape Sounion is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Many visitors explore the shopping areas 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.

Cape Sounion is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Cape Sounion or Split Better for Families?

Cape Sounion
Split

Split is an excellent place to visit for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Cape Sounion is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its family-friendly activities.

You'll find plenty of family-friendly things to do in Split. 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 Cape Sounion. Kids who like mythology will appreciated a trip to the famed Temple of Poseidon. It dates back to the 5th century and is dedicated to the God of the Sea. Also nearby is the Temple of Athena.

Is Cape Sounion or Split Better for Couples?

Cape Sounion
Split

Split is very popular for couples. Also, Cape Sounion is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for romance.

Split makes for a terrific place to visit as a couple. 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.

Cape Sounion is a nice destination for couples. Couples should definitely stay for the stunning sunset which provides dramatic oranges, pinks, and reds at the sun dips below the horizon.


Is Cape Sounion or Split Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Cape Sounion
Split

Split is very popular for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Cape Sounion is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for backpackers.

A large number of backpackers visit Split, as it is a very popular city for 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.

Cape Sounion is popular with backpackers and budget travelers. The Temple of Poseidon is an iconic site about an hour and a half outside of Athens. It appeals to all types of travelers, including backpackers and budget travelers.

Is Cape Sounion or Split Better for Students?

Cape Sounion
Split

Split is an excellent place to visit for its student-friendly activities. However, Cape Sounion is not popular with students.

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.

Cape Sounion is not popular with students.

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

Cape Sounion
Split

Visitors will find good public transit in both Cape Sounion and Split.

Cape Sounion has some public transit options. There are local buses that travel from Athens to Cape Sounion and take between 2 and 3 hours.

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 Cape Sounion or Split a more walkable city?

Cape Sounion
Split

Split is an excellent place to visit for its ease of walking around. Also, Cape Sounion is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its walkability.

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.

Cape Sounion is somewhat walkable. You can walk around the archeological site and the bus stops close enough that it is accessible.

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

Should I spend more time in Split or Cape Sounion?

How long in Cape Sounion or Split?

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

Families should spend more time in Split than Cape Sounion. 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 Cape Sounion. 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 Cape Sounion 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.


  • How many days in Cape Sounion or Split? Ideal Length of Stay
    Cape Sounion 1-2 
    Split 2-4

One day in Cape Sounion or Split?

In Cape Sounion, many people enjoy the food and museums that this impressive destination offers. Lots of people come for the museums. This destination offers a variety of activities to choose from. Because of this, one day is usually enough time for a trip here.

In Split, many people enjoy the shopping and museums that this historic city offers. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything.

A weekend in Cape Sounion or Split?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Cape Sounion. 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. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. If you have a weekend, this is a great place to go. It will give you the chance to have new experiences. Lots of people come for the nightlife. So, a weekend is just the right amount of time to spend here.


Five days in Cape Sounion or Split?

Cape Sounion is a fun place to experience. Travelers enjoy the food and museums when visiting the destination of Cape Sounion. Lots of people come for the museums. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything.

You'll find nightlife and food around the fun-filled destination of Split. Most people come for the beaches. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. Lots of people come for the nightlife. Five days is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days.

A week in Cape Sounion or Split?

You'll find museums and food around the spectacular destination of Cape Sounion. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. Lots of people come for the museums. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

Split is a popular place to visit. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Coach Bus Tours in Greece, The Best Adventure Tours to Greece, The Best Walking Tours in Croatia, and The Best Luxury Tours to Croatia.


Which place is cheaper, Split or Cape Sounion?

These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations.

The average daily cost (per person) in Cape Sounion is €158, while the average daily cost in Split is €108. These costs include accommodation (assuming double occupancy, so the traveler is sharing the room), food, transportation, and entertainment. While every person is different, these costs are an average of past travelers in each destination. What follows is a categorical breakdown of travel costs for Cape Sounion and Split in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Cape Sounion 99
    Split 73
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Cape Sounion 198
    Split 146
Compare Hotels in Cape Sounion and Split

Looking for a hotel in Cape Sounion or Split? Prices vary by location, date, season, and the level of luxury. See below for options and compare which is best for your budget and travel style.

Hotels in Cape Sounion


Hotels in Split


Kayak helps you find the best prices for hotels, flights, and rental cars for destinations around the world. Compare prices for multiple destinations when planning your next trip.


Our Analysis
We've analyzed the average and typical hotel prices based on guest reviews, star ratings, and hotel amenities here: Split Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Cape Sounion 26
    Split 14

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Split

Also for Split, here are a few examples of actual transportation services:

  • private transfer from Split airport to Novalja/Zrće: $538
  • private transfer from Split airport or Trogir to Šibenik: $183
  • Zagreb to Private Transfer with Plitvice Lakes: $1,022
  • Transfers from Split Airport to City Center and surrounding: $75
  • Transfer iz zračne Luke Split: $65
  • Transfer from Split to Zagreb with Entry Ticket to Plitvice Lakes: $185
  • Transfer from Split to Dubrovnik with 2 hours stop in Ston Town: $94
  • Transfer Split airport to Split: $66
  • Transfer Split airport to Split: $86
  • Transfer Split airport to Makarska: $149
  • Taxi Transfer from airport Split to Murter Tisno or Sibenik: $86
  • Transfer to Zagreb with Plitvice Lakes Entry Tickets: $182

Is it cheaper to fly into Cape Sounion or Split?

Prices for flights to both Split and Cape Sounion change regularly based on dates and travel demand. We suggest you find the best prices for your next trip on Kayak, because you can compare the cost of flights across multiple airlines for your prefered dates.





Food
  • Food Meals for one day
    Cape Sounion 41
    Split 23

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Split

For Split, here are some samples of tours and activities related to meals and dining experiences:

  • Small Group Food Tour: $38
  • From Sunset Panoramic Cruise, Nighttime Dip & Dinner: $75
  • Homemade Dinner under the Stars in Split: $85
  • Food Tour in Split ( Small Group): $97
  • Split Food Tour (Small Group): $98
  • Vegan Food tour of Split with local gastronomy: $102
  • Walking Vegan Food Tour of Split: $104
  • Old Town Food Tour: $108
  • Dinner In Dalmatia: A Family Affair Outside Split: $108
  • Split Food Tour: Discover Split One Bite At A Time: $131
  • Split Cooking Class - Afternoon Edition Shared Activity: $191
  • Split Cooking Class: $192

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Cape Sounion 19
    Split 3.67

Tours and Activities in Split

For Split, here are a few prices for actual activities, tours, and tickets provided by various companies:

  • Blue cave and Hvar - 5 Islands speedboat tour from Split: $170
  • History tour: $33
  • SPLIT-"Emperor's City for History Lovers"/BOUTIQUE Walking Tour+Cellars Museum: $30
  • SPLIT-"Emperor's City for History Lovers"/PRIVATE Walking Tour+Cellars Museum : $210
  • "Blue Lagoon" Half day Chill out tour from Split: $76
  • 2 Day Pass with Sightseeing Bus: $33
  • 2 Hours Split Walking tour with free food tasting: $33
  • 2-Hour Private Guided Tour of Split in a Classic Ford T: $45
  • 2-Hour Sunset Cruise Split: $86
  • 2-Hour Sunset Cruise Split: $88
  • 3-Hour Via-Ferrata Adventure in Fortica Fortress: $33
  • 3-Island Split Boat Tour (Šolta Drvenik Mali, Drvenik Veli): $80

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Cape Sounion 23
    Split 7.88

Sample the Local Flavors in Split

Also in Split, these are the prices for nightlife and alcohol related activities from various tour providers:

  • From Krka Waterfalls day tour & wine tasting: $17
  • From Krka Waterfalls, Food & Wine Tasting Tour: $27
  • Tower Pub Crawl in Split: $30
  • Krka Waterfalls, Food & Wine Tasting tour from Split: $32
  • Split/Trogir: Krka National Park Day Trip with Wine Tasting: $38
  • Wine Tasting and Sunset Klis Fortress Tour from Split: $38
  • Krka Waterfalls and wine tasting Tour from Split or Trogir : $46
  • Krka National Park Tour with tour Guide & Wine tasting from Split & Trogir: $46
  • Split&Sip: Educational wine tasting: $52
  • Wine Tasting in the Diocletian's Palace: $54
  • Diocletian's Palace Walking and Wine Tasting Tour: $71
  • From Split/Trogir: Mostar and Medjugorje Tour with Wine Tasting: $75


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


Which is Bigger, Cape Sounion or Split?

Split has a larger population, and is about 180 times larger than the population of Cape Sounion. When comparing the sizes of Cape Sounion 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 Cape Sounion 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 Cape Sounion or Split in the Summer?

Both Split and Cape Sounion are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Cape Sounion for the beaches and the family-friendly experiences during these months. Also, the summer months attract visitors to Split because of the beaches, snorkeling, the city activities, and the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Cape Sounion is generally around the same temperature as Split. Daily temperatures in Cape Sounion average around 27°C (81°F), and Split fluctuates around 26°C (80°F).

It's quite sunny in Split. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Cape Sounion. Cape Sounion usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Split during summer. Cape Sounion gets 357 hours of sunny skies, while Split receives 345 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Cape Sounion usually receives less rain than Split. Cape Sounion gets 6 mm (0.2 in) of rain, while Split receives 28 mm (1.1 in) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Cape Sounion 27°C (81°F) 
    Split 26°C (80°F)

Should I visit Cape Sounion or Split in the Autumn?

Both Split and Cape Sounion during the autumn are popular places to visit. The autumn months attract visitors to Cape Sounion because of the natural beauty of the area. Also, the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene are the main draw to Split this time of year.

Cape Sounion is around the same temperature as Split in the autumn. The daily temperature in Cape Sounion averages around 19°C (67°F) in October, and Split fluctuates around 18°C (64°F).

In Split, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Cape Sounion. In the autumn, Cape Sounion often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Split. Cape Sounion gets 206 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Split receives 200 hours of full sun.

Cape Sounion usually gets less rain in October than Split. Cape Sounion gets 48 mm (1.9 in) of rain, while Split receives 79 mm (3.1 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Cape Sounion 19°C (67°F) 
    Split 18°C (64°F)

Should I visit Cape Sounion or Split in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Cape Sounion and Split. The museums and the cuisine are the main draw to Cape Sounion this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Split for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

In the winter, Cape Sounion is a little warmer than Split. Typically, the winter temperatures in Cape Sounion in January average around 10°C (51°F), and Split averages at about 8°C (47°F).

Cape Sounion usually receives more sunshine than Split during winter. Cape Sounion gets 143 hours of sunny skies, while Split receives 128 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Cape Sounion usually receives less rain than Split. Cape Sounion gets 45 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while Split receives 83 mm (3.3 in) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Cape Sounion 10°C (51°F) 
    Split 8°C (47°F)

Should I visit Cape Sounion or Split in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Cape Sounion as well as Split. Many travelers come to Cape Sounion for the beaches and the natural beauty. Also, many visitors come to Split in the spring for the beaches and the activities around the city.

In April, Cape Sounion is generally around the same temperature as Split. Daily temperatures in Cape Sounion average around 16°C (60°F), and Split fluctuates around 15°C (59°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Split. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Cape Sounion this time of the year. In the spring, Cape Sounion often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Split. Cape Sounion gets 226 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Split receives 212 hours of full sun.

Cape Sounion usually gets less rain in April than Split. Cape Sounion gets 25 mm (1 in) of rain, while Split receives 66 mm (2.6 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Cape Sounion 16°C (60°F) 
    Split 15°C (59°F)

Typical Weather for Split and Cape Sounion

Cape Sounion Split
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 10°C (51°F) 45 mm (1.8 in) 8°C (47°F) 83 mm (3.3 in)
Feb 11°C (51°F) 48 mm (1.9 in) 9°C (48°F) 68 mm (2.7 in)
Mar 12°C (54°F) 44 mm (1.7 in) 11°C (52°F) 75 mm (3 in)
Apr 16°C (60°F) 25 mm (1 in) 15°C (59°F) 66 mm (2.6 in)
May 20°C (68°F) 14 mm (0.6 in) 20°C (67°F) 56 mm (2.2 in)
Jun 24°C (76°F) 6 mm (0.2 in) 23°C (74°F) 51 mm (2 in)
Jul 27°C (81°F) 6 mm (0.2 in) 26°C (80°F) 28 mm (1.1 in)
Aug 27°C (81°F) 8 mm (0.3 in) 26°C (79°F) 50 mm (2 in)
Sep 24°C (76°F) 10 mm (0.4 in) 22°C (72°F) 61 mm (2.4 in)
Oct 19°C (67°F) 48 mm (1.9 in) 18°C (64°F) 79 mm (3.1 in)
Nov 16°C (60°F) 51 mm (2 in) 13°C (56°F) 108 mm (4.3 in)
Dec 12°C (54°F) 66 mm (2.6 in) 10°C (49°F) 100 mm (3.9 in)