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

Should you visit Dresden or Split?

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

Should I visit Dresden 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.

Dresden

Dresden is a cultural, park-filled, and friendly city. It's a large city, so you'll find plenty of things to do around town. Visitors also love the food, shopping, and museums.

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. Other popular activities here include scuba diving and snorkeling, beaches, and shopping.

Dresden and Split: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Dresden or Split?

Travelers will generally find more things to do in Split than Dresden. While Dresden is larger than Split, Split has more sights and attractions for tourists. Split is more popular for its museums, food, nightlife, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, and shopping, while Dresden is known for its historical sights. Split is more touristy than Dresden and is popular for its historical sights, high energy coastal setting, and waterfront promenades. It is also home to Diocletian's Palace. Dresden is popular for its beautiful palaces, castles, and many landmarks (such as the Baroque Zwinger Palace, Semperoper Opera House and the Church of Our Lady).

How is Dresden different from Split?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Split is a great destination for its museums and landmarks. Also, Dresden is still popular, but not quite as popular for its historical sights.

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.

Dresden is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. It's rich in culture and baroque architecture. Some of the main sights around town include Dresden Frauenkirche, the Dresden Royal Palace and Museums, the Zwinger and Old Masters Picture Gallery, and the Semper Opera.

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

Split is a great destination for its restaurant scene. Also, Dresden is still popular, but not quite as popular for its local flavors and cuisine.

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.

There are plenty of up and coming restaurants around Dresden. The food features a number of Saxon specialties, which are typically hearty and heavy on the meat. If you have a sweet tooth, you'll also appreciate the many sweets that you can find around town. You should make sure you try a Fettbemme (open faced sandwich), Eierschecke (a cake), and Sächsische Kartoffelsuppe (potato soup) while you're in town.

Is Dresden or Split Better for Nightlife?

Split is an amazing city to visit for its evening party scene. Also, Dresden is still popular, but not quite as popular 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.

The nightlife in Dresden has something for everybody. Head to Neustadt for the highest concentration of bars and clubs. There's a diversity of trendy clubs and casual bars. Bar hopping is easy as most places are accessible by public transit.

Is Dresden or Split Better for Resorts?

Split is a great destination for its resorts. However, Dresden 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.

Dresden is not a resort destination.

Is Dresden or Split Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Split is a great destination for snorkeling and scuba diving. However, Dresden 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.

Dresden is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Dresden or Split Better for Beaches?

Split is a great destination for the beach. However, Dresden is not a beach destination.

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.

Dresden is not a beach destination.

Is Dresden or Split Better for its Old Town?

Dresden 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 Dresden. Much of the city's old town has been rebuilt, but that's not to say it isn't beautiful. The main square and surrounding area are where you'll find the majority of the city's main sights.

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 Dresden or Split?

Split is a great destination for its shopping areas. Also, Dresden is still popular, but not quite as popular for shopping.

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.

Plenty of visitors enjoy shopping while in Dresden. Kunsthofpassage Dresden is a network of streets where you'll find crafts, art, and other eclectic items for sale. Prager Strasse is a popular shopping street near old town and Seestrasse is where you'll find all of the trendy brands that are popular throughout Europe. The city also has many shopping malls.

Is Dresden or Split Better for Families?

Split is a great destination for its family-friendly activities. However, Dresden is a city with minimal options 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.

For families, Dresden is not always the best place to visit. It doesn't have quite the abundance of activities for kids that you may find in other Germany cities, but that doesn't mean that kids will be bored. There's the Dresden Zoo, the Dresdner Parkeisenbahn (a small steam rail), and the Saxon Folk Art Museum. Families can also take a guided to of the Transparent Factory, which is owned by Volkswagon and provided information on the manufacturing of automobiles.

Is Dresden or Split Better for Couples?

Split is an amazing city to visit for couples. Also, Dresden is still popular, but not quite as popular 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.

Dresden is a nice destination for couples. Couples can explore the old town or walk through one of the city's many parks. The city has many cultural activities. In the new town you'll find many great bars and fascinating restaurants.

Is Dresden or Split Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Split is an amazing city to visit for backpackers. Also, Dresden is still popular, but not quite as popular 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.

Dresden is popular with backpackers and budget travelers. There are plenty of hostels to choose from and the city itself is not particularly expensive.

Is Dresden or Split Better for Students?

Split is a great destination for students. However, Dresden 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.

Dresden is not popular with students.

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

You'll find somewhat comparable public transit options in both Dresden and Split.

You'll find some public transit in Dresden, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. The city has two major train stations as well as tram and bus lines around town.

While Split offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. There are bus services that will help you get around town.

Is Dresden or Split a more walkable city?

Dresden and Split both are superb when exploring on foot.

Dresden is a very walkable destination. Particularly in the compact city center you'll find Dresden to be very walkable.

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 Dresden Worth Visiting? and Is Split Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Split or Dresden?

How long in Dresden or Split?

It's fun to spend time in either Dresden or Split. Generally, people tend to spend more time in Split due to the larger number of activities and things to do. Usually, 1-3 days is a good amount of time for Dresden, and 2-4 days is enough time in Split.

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

In Dresden, many people enjoy the shopping and museums that this cultural destination offers. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Because of this, one day is usually enough time for a trip here.

In Split, you'll find shopping and museums. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. One reason most visitors come is for the nightlife. This city offers something for everyone. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

A weekend in Dresden or Split?

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

In Split, you'll find museums and nightlife. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend here is typical. Most people come for the beaches. One reason most visitors come is for the nightlife. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Split has to offer.

Five days in Dresden or Split?

Dresden is a fun place to experience. Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the destination of Dresden. Visiting the old town is also a must. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything.

Split is a great place to explore. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. Five days is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

A week in Dresden or Split?

You'll find food and shopping around the park-filled destination of Dresden. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Split. Many people enjoy the food and scuba diving and snorkeling when visiting Split. One reason most visitors come is for the nightlife. It's also a relaxing resort destination. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.

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

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

Which is Bigger, Dresden or Split?

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

The summer brings many poeple to Dresden as well as Split. Most visitors come to Dresden for the city activities and the family-friendly experiences during these months. Additionally, the summer months attract visitors to Split because of the beaches, snorkeling, the city activities, and the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Dresden is generally cooler than Split. Daily temperatures in Dresden average around 20°C (68°F), and Split fluctuates around 26°C (80°F).

Dresden usually gets more rain in July than Split. Dresden gets 61 mm (2.4 in) of rain, while Split receives 28 mm (1.1 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Dresden or Split in the Autumn?

Both Split and Dresden are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. The autumn months attract visitors to Dresden because of the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene. Also, the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene are the main draw to Split this time of year.

Dresden is much colder than Split in the autumn. The daily temperature in Dresden averages around 11°C (51°F) in October, and Split fluctuates around 18°C (64°F).

In October, Dresden usually receives less rain than Split. Dresden gets 48 mm (1.9 in) of rain, while Split receives 79 mm (3.1 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Dresden or Split in the Winter?

Both Split and Dresden during the winter are popular places to visit. The museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Dresden this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Split for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

It's quite cold in Dresden in the winter. In the winter, Dresden is much colder than Split. Typically, the winter temperatures in Dresden in January average around 1°C (33°F), and Split averages at about 8°C (47°F).

Dresden usually gets less rain in January than Split. Dresden gets 38 mm (1.5 in) of rain, while Split receives 83 mm (3.3 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Dresden or Split in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Dresden and Split. Many travelers come to Dresden for the activities around the city. Also, many visitors come to Split in the spring for the beaches and the activities around the city.

In April, Dresden is generally cooler than Split. Daily temperatures in Dresden average around 10°C (50°F), and Split fluctuates around 15°C (59°F).

In April, Dresden usually receives less rain than Split. Dresden gets 53 mm (2.1 in) of rain, while Split receives 66 mm (2.6 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Split and Dresden