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

Should you visit Hydra or Split?

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

Should I visit Hydra 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.

Hydra

Hydra is a accessible, quaint, and picturesque island. It offers plenty of small town charm along with sights and activities, too. The beauty of this spot is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. Visitors also love the scuba diving and snorkeling, beaches, and hiking.

Split

Split is a touristy, fun-filled, and budget-friendly 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.

Hydra and Split: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Hydra or Split?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Split. Although Hydra and Split are popular destinations, Split has more sights and attractions for tourists. Split is very popular for its food, nightlife, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, and big city activities, while Hydra attracts visitors for its historical sights, hiking, small town charm, and impressive beauty. Split is more touristy than Hydra and is popular for its historical sights, high energy coastal setting, and waterfront promenades. It is also well known for Diocletian's Palace. Hydra is famous for its picturesque setting, car-free setting, and beautiful old town.

How is Hydra different from Split?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Both Hydra and Split have superb landmarks and museums for visitors.

Hydra offers many unique museums, sights, and landmarks that will make for a memorable trip. For such a small island, there are many local museums and sights. Highlights include the Historical Archives Museum, the Ecclesiastical Museum, the Monastery of Agia Efpraxia, and the Monastery of Prophet Elias.

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 Hydra or Split? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

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

With its innovative style combined with traditional elements, Split makes for a great culinary experience. 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.

Hydra has a delicious restaurant scene that relies on local flavors. For such a small island, it really packs in some great restaurants. Head down the side streets to find the best souvlaki. There are also tavernas where you can sample local wine. Fresh caught seafood is a favorite on the island as well.

Is Hydra or Split Better for Nightlife?

Split is a world-class destination for nightlife. However, Hydra is a island with minimal options for nightlife and partying.

People head to Split just to party. 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.

Hydra doesn't have the most active nightlife scene. It's a small island that is often visited as a day trip, so don't expect a huge party scene. There are about seven places in total that make up the island's nightlife scene. Each is centered around the harbor and many people start their evening at one bar and slowly hop around. They usually have DJs and full bars.

Is Hydra or Split Better for Resorts?

Split is a great destination for its resorts. Also, Hydra is still popular, but not quite as popular for its luxury resorts.

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.

With a selection of resorts, Hydra makes a nice vacation spot. It's a popular day trip destination, but if you stay for a night or two, you'll find boutique hotels and charming pensions.

Is Hydra or Split Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Split is a great destination for the nearby scuba diving and snorkeling. Also, Hydra is still popular, but not quite as popular for its diving and snorkeling.

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.

It's worth going snorkeling or scuba diving in Hydra. There are some snorkeling spots around the island - most notably Bisti Beach, which is pebbly and has some interesting sea life.

Is Hydra or Split Better for Beaches?

Split is a great destination for its beaches. Also, Hydra is still popular, but not quite as popular for the beache.

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 Hydra to enjoy the beach. The beaches are usually pebbly with nice blue water. Many people visit the beaches as part of a boat tour, which leaves from the port and tours the island. Some of the most popular beaches are Vlichos, Kaminia, Bisti and Agios Nikolaos.

Is Hydra or Split Better for its Old Town?

Hydra 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 Hydra. With no cars and plenty of charm, the island's old town feels as if you've stepped back in time. Donkey pulled carts and quaint streets give this town its atmosphere.

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 Hydra or Split Better for Hiking?

Hydra is an excellent place to visit for its hiking trails. However, Split is not a hiking destination.

Many visitors explore the nearby hiking trails while visiting Hydra. The island is filled with walking paths and donkey trails that are fun to explore. Some walk along the sea and offer spectacular views while others take you inland through the hills.

Split is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Hydra or Split?

Shopping is a popular activity in both Split and Hydra.

Hydra is an extremely popular place for shoppers. Charming shops fill the town and sell local items such as handmade jewelry and traditional embroideries.

Split is well-known for its shopping. 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 Hydra or Split Better for Families?

Kids will enjoy a visit to either Hydra or Split.

Hydra is a very family-friendly place to visit. The island feels like it's frozen in time. There are no cars allowed here, so kids can run freely without the worry of traffic. They'll be as fascinated as you are by the carts pulled by donkeys. Most things you'll visit are also close together, making accessibility easy. In addition to some interesting museums, there are beaches and kid-friendly food. The whole island really is a playground.

Because of its large number of kid-friendly activities, Split is very family-friendly. 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 Hydra or Split Better for Couples?

With fun activities for couples, both Hydra and Split make for a amazing place to visit.

Hydra makes for a terrific place to visit as a couple. This beautiful island makes a great honeymoon or couple's destination. Most visitors come as a day trip, but spending a night or two on the island is a unique experience. It has a laid back vibe and is filled with romance. The food is amazing, and the traditional atmosphere will make you feel as if you've traveled back in time.

For those traveling as a couple, Split 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.

Is Hydra or Split Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Split is a world-class destination for backpackers. However, Hydra is a island 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.

Hydra is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. Most people visit the island as a day trip and it doesn't attract nearly as many backpackers as the larger Greek islands. If you visit during the lower season, you might find some affordable accommodation.

Is Hydra or Split Better for Students?

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

Hydra is not popular with students.

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

Split is a popular place for its public transit. However, Hydra is a island with minimal options 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 mostly limited in Hydra. There are sea taxis and beach boats on the island.

Is Hydra or Split a more walkable city?

Hydra 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 Hydra. The entire island is car-free and everything that you want to visit is close together and easy 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 Hydra Worth Visiting? and Is Split Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Split or Hydra?

How long in Hydra or Split?

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

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

Even though Hydra is a small town, it has plenty of activities to choose from. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. This island 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 Hydra or Split?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Hydra. For many, it makes a great getaway for a weekend. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking 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.

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 Hydra or Split?

Hydra is a fun place to experience. Hydra is a small town, so it's a great destination if you're short on time. 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 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 Hydra or Split?

Hydra is a small town, so you can explore the area with less time. 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.

You'll find museums and nightlife around the touristy 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 Historical Tours in Greece, The Best 10-Day Tours in Greece, The Best Walking Tours in Croatia, and The Best Luxury Tours to Croatia.

When comparing the travel costs between Hydra and Split, we can see that Split 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 Hydra Expensive? and Is Split Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Hydra or Split?

Split has a larger population, and is about 80 times larger than the population of Hydra. When comparing the sizes of Hydra 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 Hydra 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 Hydra or Split in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Hydra as well as Split. Most visitors come to Hydra for the beaches, snorkeling, the hiking, the small town charm, 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 the summer, Hydra is around the same temperature as Split. Typically, the summer temperatures in Hydra in July average around 27°C (81°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 Hydra this time of the year. In the summer, Hydra often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Split. Hydra gets 357 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Split receives 345 hours of full sun.

Hydra usually gets less rain in July than Split. Hydra gets 6 mm (0.2 in) of rain, while Split receives 28 mm (1.1 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Hydra or Split in the Autumn?

Both Split and Hydra are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. The autumn months attract visitors to Hydra because of the hiking trails, the shopping scene, the small town atmosphere, 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 October, Hydra is generally around the same temperature as Split. Daily temperatures in Hydra average around 19°C (67°F), and Split fluctuates around 18°C (64°F).

It's quite sunny in Split. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Hydra. Hydra usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Split during autumn. Hydra gets 206 hours of sunny skies, while Split receives 200 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Hydra usually receives less rain than Split. Hydra 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 Hydra or Split in the Winter?

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

Hydra is a little warmer than Split in the winter. The daily temperature in Hydra averages around 10°C (51°F) in January, and Split fluctuates around 8°C (47°F).

In the winter, Hydra often gets more sunshine than Split. Hydra gets 143 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Split receives 128 hours of full sun.

Hydra usually gets less rain in January than Split. Hydra gets 45 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while Split receives 83 mm (3.3 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Hydra or Split in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Hydra and Split. Many travelers come to Hydra for the beaches, the small town charm, and the natural beauty. Also, many visitors come to Split in the spring for the beaches and the activities around the city.

In the spring, Hydra is around the same temperature as Split. Typically, the spring temperatures in Hydra in April average around 16°C (60°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. In Hydra, it's very sunny this time of the year. Hydra usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Split during spring. Hydra gets 226 hours of sunny skies, while Split receives 212 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Hydra usually receives less rain than Split. Hydra gets 25 mm (1 in) of rain, while Split receives 66 mm (2.6 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Split and Hydra