A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Cesis vs. Split for Couples, Backpackers, Food, and Families

Should you visit Cesis or Split?

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

Trying to figure out where to travel next? This travel comparison between Cesis and Split can help. It includes a travel cost comparison in addition to other factors. For many travelers, the cost of a destination is a primary consideration when choosing where to go.

Cesis

Cesis is a small, authentic, and natural town. It offers plenty of small town charm along with sights and activities, too. Cesis is a beautiful place to visit, too. Visitors also love the hiking. See Cesis travel costs.

Split

Split is a historic, active, and touristy 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. See Split travel costs.

Cesis and Split: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Cesis or Split?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Split than Cesis, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Split is better known for its museums and attractions, food, nightlife, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, historical sights, shopping, and big city activities, while Cesis is more popular for its hiking, small town charm, and impressive beauty. Split is more touristy than Cesis and is popular for its historical sights, high energy coastal setting, and waterfront promenades. Also, Split is famous for Diocletian's Palace. Cesis is well known for its medieval castle and nearby hikes.

How is Cesis different from Split?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Split is well known for its museums and landmarks. However, Cesis does not have museums and landmarks.

You'll find a good number of museums and monuments packed into 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.

Cesis does not have museums and landmarks.

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

Split is well known for its restaurant scene. However, Cesis is not particularly known 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.

Cesis may not make the list for most foodies, but you'll find what you need while you're in town. The town is small so there are a limited number of restaurants to choose from. You'll find some nice cafes and bakeries though where you can enjoy local foods and traditional Latvian dishes.

Is Cesis or Split Better for Nightlife?

Split is renowned for nightlife and partying. However, Cesis is not particularly known 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.

The nightlife scene is quiet in Cesis The town is small and many travelers visit as a day trip from Riga, so you'll find limited nightlife options around town.

Is Cesis or Split Better for Resorts?

Split is well known for its resorts. However, Cesis is not a resort destination.

In Split, you'll find some of the region's top resorts. 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.

Cesis is not a resort destination.

Is Cesis or Split Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Split is well known for its diving and snorkeling. However, Cesis is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Split is an extremely popular place to visit for scuba diving and snorkeling. 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.

Cesis is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Cesis or Split Better for Beaches?

Split is well known for the beach. However, Cesis is not a beach destination.

The beaches at Split attract visitors from all over. 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.

Cesis is not a beach destination.

Is Cesis or Split Better for its Old Town?

Split is a city with good options for its old town. However, Cesis is not particularly known for its historic old town charm.

Many people head to Split to see the 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.

The old town area in Cesis is worth visiting. The old town is small but charming and authentic. There are a few unique sites that are worth visiting as well.

Is Cesis or Split Better for Hiking?

Cesis is a good destination for its hiking trails. However, Split is not a hiking destination.

Cesis offers some nice hiking trails. The town makes the perfect base for exploring the surrounding Gauja National Park, which has many hiking and cycling trails. Two of the most well known hikes are the Baltic Forest Trail and the Camino Latvia, both or which pass through town. There are also shorter day hikes to choose from as well.

Split is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Cesis or Split?

Split is well known for its shopping opportunities. However, Cesis is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

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.

Cesis is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Cesis or Split More Beautiful?

Cesis is a good destination for its scenery and beauty. However, Split is not a destination known for its beauty.

Cesis is a beautiful place to visit, too. Head outside of town to experience the hiking trails and natural beauty. The park is best explored during the summer months.

Split is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Cesis or Split Better for Families?

Split is well known for its family-friendly activities. Also, Cesis is still popular, but not quite as popular 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.

Cesis offers lots of family activities. The Cēsis Medieval Castle has a unique interactive set of tasks and games that the whole family can enjoy. Other fun family-friendly activities around town include adventure parks such as Supervāvere, the camel park of Rakši, and a farmhouse bakery where kids can learn about traditional baking and breadmaking.

Is Cesis or Split Better for Couples?

Split is renowned for its romantic activities. Also, Cesis is still popular, but not quite as popular for couples.

Split is a great city for couples, as it has plenty to offer. 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.

Cesis is a good town for couples to visit. There are a number of outdoor activities that adventurous couples can enjoy. The medieval castle is also a unique place to explore.

Is Cesis or Split Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Split is renowned for backpackers. Also, Cesis 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 backpackers visit Cesis. Many people visit town as a day trip from Riga, so there are a limited number of hotels and hostels to choose from. If you want to enjoy hiking and the area's natural beauty, it is recommend that you spend more time here.

Is Cesis or Split Better for Students?

Split is well known for students. However, Cesis is not popular with students.

Students come from all over to stay in 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.

Cesis is not popular with students.

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

Split is a city with good options for its public transit. However, Cesis is not particularly known for times when you don't have a car.

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.

Public transit is quite limited in Cesis. There are some bus options, but to thoroughly explore the surrounding area you'll really need access to a car.

Is Cesis or Split a more walkable city?

Split is well known for its high level of walkability. Also, Cesis 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.

Cesis is a somewhat walkable town. It's fun to explore old town on foot but many places in the surrounding countryside require a car to access.

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

Should I spend more time in Split or Cesis?

How long in Cesis or Split?

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

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

Even though Cesis is a small town, it has plenty of activities to choose from. This town 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 food and scuba diving and snorkeling that this active destination offers. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. Lots of people come for the nightlife. 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.

A weekend in Cesis or Split?

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

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Split. For many, it makes a great getaway for a weekend. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. 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.

Five days in Cesis or Split?

Cesis is a fun place to experience. Cesis is a small town, so it's a great destination if you're short on time. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything.

Split is a fun place to experience. Travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the destination of Split. Lots of people come for the nightlife. 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.

A week in Cesis or Split?

Cesis is a small town, so you can explore the area with less time. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

You'll find museums and nightlife around the active destination of Split. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. Lots of people come for the nightlife. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

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

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Cesis and Split, we can see that Split is more expensive. And not only is Cesis much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Cesis would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Cesis 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 Split would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Split than you might in Cesis.

If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is Cesis Expensive? and Is Split Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Cesis or Split?

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

The summer brings many poeple to Cesis as well as Split. The hiking, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Cesis this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Split for the beaches, snorkeling, the city activities, and the family-friendly experiences.

Cesis is much colder than Split in the summer. The daily temperature in Cesis averages around 17°C (63°F) in July, and Split fluctuates around 26°C (80°F).

Cesis usually gets more rain in July than Split. Cesis gets 79 mm (3.1 in) of rain, while Split receives 28 mm (1.1 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Cesis or Split in the Autumn?

Both Split and Cesis are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Cesis for the hiking trails, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area. Also, many visitors come to Split in the autumn for the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene.

In the autumn, Cesis is much colder than Split. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Cesis in October average around 7°C (45°F), and Split averages at about 18°C (64°F).

In October, Cesis usually receives less rain than Split. Cesis gets 60 mm (2.4 in) of rain, while Split receives 79 mm (3.1 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Cesis or Split in the Winter?

Both Split and Cesis during the winter are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Cesis in the winter for the cuisine. Furthermore, most visitors come to Split for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months.

Cesis can get quite cold in the winter. In January, Cesis is generally much colder than Split. Daily temperatures in Cesis average around -5°C (23°F), and Split fluctuates around 8°C (47°F).

Cesis usually gets less rain in January than Split. Cesis gets 33 mm (1.3 in) of rain, while Split receives 83 mm (3.3 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Cesis or Split in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Cesis and Split. Most visitors come to Cesis for the small town charm and the natural beauty during these months. Furthermore, the spring months attract visitors to Split because of the beaches and the activities around the city.

Cesis is much colder than Split in the spring. The daily temperature in Cesis averages around 5°C (42°F) in April, and Split fluctuates around 15°C (59°F).

In April, Cesis usually receives less rain than Split. Cesis gets 39 mm (1.5 in) of rain, while Split receives 66 mm (2.6 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Split and Cesis