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

Should you visit Geneva 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 Geneva 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.

Geneva

Geneva is a international, professional, and classy city. Travelers will also find plenty of sights and attractions here, as it's a big city that attracts lots of visitors. It's a beautiful place to visit, too. 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. It's also known for nightlife, food, and scuba diving and snorkeling.

Geneva and Split: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Geneva or Split?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Split. Although Geneva and Split are popular destinations, Split has more sights and attractions for tourists. Split is very popular for its nightlife, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, and beaches, while Geneva attracts visitors for its shopping, big city activities, and impressive beauty. Split is more touristy than Geneva and is popular for its historical sights, high energy coastal setting, and waterfront promenades. It is also well known for Diocletian's Palace. Geneva is famous for its role as a global hub for the United Nations, the Red Cross, and the World Health Organization.

How is Geneva different from Split?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Both Geneva and Split have excellent landmarks and museums for visitors.

Visitors can fill many days exploring the museums and attractions around Geneva. Famous sights and landmarks include the spectacular Water Jet, St Pierre Cathedral, and the Palais des Nations. There are also impressive art and history museums in the city.

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 Geneva or Split? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Dining out at restaurants in both Geneva and Split can be an enjoyable experience.

With its innovative style combined with traditional elements, Geneva makes for a great culinary experience. The city has an amazing mix of traditional Swiss restaurants as well as diverse ethnic options. Traditional dishes include fondue and raclette, both of which involve the decadent Swiss cheese.

Split has a huge number of terrific 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.

Is Geneva or Split Better for Nightlife?

Split is an unbeatable place for nightlife. Also, Geneva is still popular, but not quite as popular for nightlife and partying.

The nightlife in Split is well established with world renowned clubs and venues. 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.

If you're looking for night time activities Geneva has a few options to choose from. During the day the city is all business, but at night the professionals, interns, students, and NGO workers all come together to enjoy a drink at a bar or dance at one of the city's diverse clubs.

Is Geneva or Split Better for Resorts?

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

Geneva is not a resort destination.

Is Geneva or Split Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Split is a great destination for the nearby scuba diving and snorkeling. However, Geneva 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.

Geneva is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Geneva or Split Better for Beaches?

Split is a great destination for its beaches. However, Geneva 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.

Geneva is not a beach destination.

Is Geneva or Split Better for its Old Town?

Visitors enjoy the nice old town areas in both Geneva and Split.

Many visitors go to Geneva to see the historical old town. The Old Town offers a number of charming streets where you can wander as well as historical buildings including St. Pierre Cathedral.

Plenty of visitors enjoy exploring the old town in Split. 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 Geneva or Split?

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

Known for shopping, Geneva draws large crowds to its stores. Famous for its posh shops and luxury brands, this city is a popular shopping destination. From chic boutiques to deluxe toy stores, you'll find something for everyone. In particular, the city is known for its Swiss watches, Swiss Army knives, chocolate, and wine.

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 Geneva or Split Better for Families?

Split is a great destination for its family-friendly activities. Also, Geneva is still popular, but not quite as popular for its kid-friendly activities.

Split is 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.

Geneva offers lots of family activities. This diverse city has a number of chocolate shops, toy stores, and parks where kids can play. They'll be impressed by the Water Jet and there are few places where you can swim in the lake when the weather is warm.

Is Geneva or Split Better for Couples?

Split is an unbeatable place for romance. Also, Geneva is still popular, but not quite as popular 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.

Geneva makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. Wandering Old Town, sampling Swiss chocolate, and enjoying one of the many ethnic restaurants around town all make for great date activities. Fondue in a traditional restaurant is also a not to be missed experience.

Is Geneva or Split Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Split is an unbeatable place for backpackers. However, Geneva is a city with minimal options for backpackers and budget travelers.

Split is a mecca for backpackers and 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.

Geneva is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. The city is often overlooked by backpackers as it is pretty expensive. Many hotels cater to the business traveler crowd, but there are a few hostels to choose from.

Is Geneva or Split Better for Students?

Geneva and Split are excellent places to visit for students.

Many students visit Geneva. The University of Geneva attracts many international students and the city is quite diverse. It feels like a mixing bowl of cultures, so students will feel very welcomed and comfortable here.

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.

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

Geneva is terrific for times when you don't have a car. Also, Split is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its public transit.

The thorough and effecient public transit system of Geneva can take you anywhere. The very comprehensive system includes trams, buses, and boats.

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 Geneva or Split a more walkable city?

Geneva and Split both are excellent when exploring on foot.

Geneva is very walkable. Most areas where visitors spend their time can be easily explored on foot.

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.

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

Should I spend more time in Split or Geneva?

How long in Geneva or Split?

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

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

Each neighborhood in Geneva has its own distinct appeal, so there are pleny of areas to explore. Lots of people come for the shopping. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Because of this, one day is usually enough time for a trip here.

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 Geneva or Split?

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

Geneva is a fun place to experience. Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the big city destination of Geneva. Lots of people come for the shopping. 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 Geneva or Split?

You'll find food and shopping around the diverse big city of Geneva. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. Lots of people come for the shopping. 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 Tours for Outdoor and Nature Lovers in Switzerland, The Best Adventure Tours to Switzerland, The Best Walking Tours in Croatia, and The Best Luxury Tours to Croatia.

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

Which is Bigger, Geneva or Split?

Geneva has a larger population, and is about 4% larger than the population of Split. When comparing the sizes of Geneva 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 Geneva 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 Geneva or Split in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Geneva as well as Split. The summer months attract visitors to Geneva because of the city activities and the family-friendly experiences. Additionally, the beaches, snorkeling, the city activities, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Split this time of year.

In the summer, Geneva is cooler than Split. Typically, the summer temperatures in Geneva in July average around 22°C (71°F), and Split averages at about 26°C (80°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Split. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Geneva this time of the year. In the summer, Geneva often gets less sunshine than Split. Geneva gets 285 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Split receives 345 hours of full sun.

Geneva usually gets more rain in July than Split. Geneva 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 Geneva or Split in the Autumn?

Both Split and Geneva are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. The city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Geneva this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Split for the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene.

In October, Geneva is generally cooler than Split. Daily temperatures in Geneva average around 14°C (56°F), and Split fluctuates around 18°C (64°F).

It's quite sunny in Split. Geneva usually receives less sunshine than Split during autumn. Geneva gets 127 hours of sunny skies, while Split receives 200 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Geneva usually receives around the same amount of rain as Split. Geneva gets 78 mm (3.1 in) of rain, while Split receives 79 mm (3.1 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Geneva or Split in the Winter?

Both Split and Geneva during the winter are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Geneva for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, many visitors come to Split in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Be prepared for some very cold days in Geneva. Geneva is much colder than Split in the winter. The daily temperature in Geneva averages around 4°C (39°F) in January, and Split fluctuates around 8°C (47°F).

In the winter, Geneva often gets less sunshine than Split. Geneva gets 62 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Split receives 128 hours of full sun.

Geneva usually gets less rain in January than Split. Geneva gets 55 mm (2.1 in) of rain, while Split receives 83 mm (3.3 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Geneva or Split in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Geneva and Split. Many visitors come to Geneva in the spring for the activities around the city and the natural beauty. Also, most visitors come to Split for the beaches and the activities around the city during these months.

In the spring, Geneva is cooler than Split. Typically, the spring temperatures in Geneva in April average around 11°C (53°F), and Split averages at about 15°C (59°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Split this time of the year. Geneva usually receives less sunshine than Split during spring. Geneva gets 174 hours of sunny skies, while Split receives 212 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Geneva usually receives around the same amount of rain as Split. Geneva gets 65 mm (2.6 in) of rain, while Split receives 66 mm (2.6 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Split and Geneva