A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Graz vs. Split for Nightlife, Old Town, Couples, and Backpackers

Should you visit Graz or Split?

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

Should I visit Graz 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.

Graz

Graz is a historical, beautiful, and medieval city. It's a beautiful place to visit, too. Visitors also love the food, shopping, and museums.

Split

Split is a touristy, fun-filled, and budget-friendly city. It's a large city, so you'll find plenty of things to do around town. Visitors also love the food, scuba diving and snorkeling, and beaches.

Graz and Split: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Graz or Split?

Visitors will generally find more to do in Split than Graz. While Graz is larger than Split, Split has more sights, attractions, and activities for tourists. Split is better known for its nightlife, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, and big city activities, while Graz is more popular for its historical sights and impressive beauty. Split is more touristy than Graz and is known for its historical sights, high energy coastal setting, and waterfront promenades. Also, Split is famous for Diocletian's Palace. Graz is well known for its many cultural activities, its impressive old town, and its beautiful Baroque architecture.

How is Graz different from Split?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Visiting museums and landmarks is a fun activity in both Graz and Split.

Graz offers many unique museums, sights, and landmarks that will make for a memorable trip. The old town is among the largest in Europe and it's filled with sights and museums. The Schlossberg and the Clock Tower are among the most iconic sights but other highlights include the GrazMuseum, the Mohren Apotheke's Theriak Museum, a Gothic Franciscan Church, and the Robert Stolz Museum.

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.

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

There are opportunities to sample the local cuisine at superb restaurants in both Graz and Split.

Graz has a huge number of terrific restaurants. There's a huge focus on sustainable dining in town, so you'll find many restaurants that use a farm to table approach. Local ingredients are heavily valued and it's fun to sample the many local flavors. Backhendl is a classic fried chicken dish that you must try.

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 Graz or Split Better for Nightlife?

Split is renowned for nightlife and partying. Also, Graz is not as popular, but is still a nice city 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.

Graz has plenty to do after the sun goes down. The large student population means that there's an active nightlife scene that is diverse and fun. There's a wide variety of bars and pubs with almost any music genre you could want. There are also dance clubs for those who are looking for a party.

Is Graz or Split Better for Resorts?

Split is great for its luxury resorts. However, Graz 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.

Graz is not a resort destination.

Is Graz or Split Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Split is great for its diving and snorkeling. However, Graz 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.

Graz is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Graz or Split Better for Beaches?

Split is great for the beache. However, Graz 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.

Graz is not a beach destination.

Is Graz or Split Better for its Old Town?

Graz is terrific for its old town. Also, Split is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its historic old town charm.

Graz has a unique history which comes to life in its historic area. The medieval city center is very well preserved and one of the largest in Europe. The city has a lot of hidden charm and quaint streets to explore.

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 Graz or Split?

If you're looking to go shopping, Graz and Split both offer plenty of superb spots.

Graz is well-known for its shopping. You'll find a lot of shopping around both Jakominiplatz and Hauptplatz Squares. There are also a number of shopping streets in town including Herrengasse which is filled with shops, restaurants, and more.

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 Graz or Split Better for Families?

Kids will enjoy a visit to either Graz or Split.

Because of its large number of kid-friendly activities, Graz is very family-friendly. Kids will love the fairytale train and there's also a 4D cinema that is fun for the whole family. In Schlossberg Hill, families should check out The Slide, which is the largest underground slide in the world. Other highlights include a Children's Museum, a Folklife Museum, and a Natural History Museum.

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.

Is Graz or Split Better for Couples?

Split is renowned for its romantic activities. Also, Graz is not as popular, but is still a nice city for couples.

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.

Graz is a very popular place to visit for couples. It's filled with culture, history, and amazing food. Couples will appreciate the romantic old town and the many world class sights around town.

Is Graz or Split Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Split is renowned for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Graz is not as popular, but is still a nice city for backpackers.

With so many budget-friendly offerings, Split is extremely popular 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.

Graz is popular with backpackers and budget travelers. There are hostels and budget-friendly hotels around town that make this a nice town to explore as a backpacker.

Is Graz or Split Better for Students?

For students, both Graz and Split are superb places to visit.

Graz is a very popular city for students and younger travelers. It's long been an education center in Austria and students make up a significant portion of the population. It's also a chill city with a relaxed and student-friendly vibe.

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.

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

Graz is an excellent place to visit for times when you don't have a car. Also, Split is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its public transit.

Public transit in Graz can get you to some places easily. There are buses and trams that travel around the town.

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 Graz or Split a more walkable city?

Graz is terrific for its high level of walkability. Also, Split is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its ease of walking around.

It's very easy to get around on foot in Graz. You'll find everything you'd want to see in the old town, which is large, but still compact enough to explore on foot.

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.

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

Should I spend more time in Split or Graz?

How long in Graz or Split?

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

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

In Graz, many people enjoy the shopping and museums that this historical destination offers. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. 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.

Visitors enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the destination of Split. People usually spend lots of time at the beach. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything.

A weekend in Graz or Split?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Graz. 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 fun place to experience. Most people visit for the nightlife. If you have a weekend, this is a great place to go. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. A weekend is often enough time to do most activities. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

Five days in Graz or Split?

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

You'll find scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping around the touristy destination of Split. This city offers something for everyone. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

A week in Graz or Split?

You'll find food and shopping around the beautiful destination of Graz. 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.

The active city of Split offers shopping and museums. You'll find plenty of activities on the beach. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. One week is usually plenty of time to spend here with extra days to spare. With this much time, visitors often visit nearby destinations or take day trips.

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

When comparing the travel costs between Graz and Split, we can see that Graz is more expensive. However, the two cities are actually relatively comparable in price, as the difference is somewhat minimal. Generally, this means that you could travel with generally the same travel style and level of luxury in each place. Since both cities are in Europe, it's no surprise that their costs are relatively close, as many destinations here have somewhat similar travel prices overall.

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

Which is Bigger, Graz or Split?

Graz has a larger population, and is about 26% larger than the population of Split. When comparing the sizes of Graz 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 Graz 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 Graz or Split in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Graz and Split. Most visitors come to Graz for 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.

Graz is cooler than Split in the summer. The daily temperature in Graz averages around 23°C (73°F) in July, and Split fluctuates around 26°C (80°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Split this time of the year. In Graz, it's very sunny this time of the year. Graz usually receives less sunshine than Split during summer. Graz gets 236 hours of sunny skies, while Split receives 345 hours of full sun in the summer.

Graz gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In July, Graz usually receives more rain than Split. Graz gets 126 mm (5 in) of rain, while Split receives 28 mm (1.1 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Graz or Split in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Graz as well as Split. The autumn months attract visitors to Graz because of the shopping scene and 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.

In the autumn, Graz is cooler than Split. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Graz in October average around 13°C (55°F), and Split averages at about 18°C (64°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Split. In the autumn, Graz often gets less sunshine than Split. Graz gets 139 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Split receives 200 hours of full sun.

Graz usually gets less rain in October than Split. Graz gets 58 mm (2.3 in) of rain, while Split receives 79 mm (3.1 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Graz or Split in the Winter?

Both Split and Graz are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. The museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Graz this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Split for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

It's quite cold in Graz in the winter. In January, Graz is generally much colder than Split. Daily temperatures in Graz average around 1°C (34°F), and Split fluctuates around 8°C (47°F).

Graz usually receives less sunshine than Split during winter. Graz gets 95 hours of sunny skies, while Split receives 128 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Graz usually receives less rain than Split. Graz gets 31 mm (1.2 in) of rain, while Split receives 83 mm (3.3 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Graz or Split in the Spring?

Both Split and Graz during the spring are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Graz for the natural beauty. Furthermore, many visitors come to Split in the spring for the beaches and the activities around the city.

Graz is cooler than Split in the spring. The daily temperature in Graz averages around 13°C (55°F) in April, and Split fluctuates around 15°C (59°F).

In Split, it's very sunny this time of the year. In the spring, Graz often gets less sunshine than Split. Graz gets 158 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Split receives 212 hours of full sun.

Graz usually gets less rain in April than Split. Graz gets 52 mm (2 in) of rain, while Split receives 66 mm (2.6 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Split and Graz