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

Should you visit Imperia or Split?

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

Should I visit Imperia 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.

Imperia

Imperia is a charming, undiscovered, and authentic town. 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. 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.

Imperia and Split: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Imperia or Split?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Split. Although Imperia and Split are both popular with visitors, Split has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Split is more popular for its museums, food, nightlife, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, historical sights, shopping, and big city activities, while Imperia is known for its impressive beauty. Split is more touristy than Imperia and is popular for its historical sights, high energy coastal setting, and waterfront promenades. It is also home to Diocletian's Palace. Imperia is popular for its access to the Ligurian coastline.

How is Imperia different from Split?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Split is notable for its sights and museums. Also, Imperia is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for its museums and history.

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.

Imperia is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. There are several interesting buildings of importance around town.

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

Split is notable for its local cuisine and restaurants. Also, Imperia is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for its restaurants.

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 Imperia. Food ranges from typical Italian dishes to local recipes that use local ingredients. Unique ingredients in the area include trumpet zucchini, flat breads, and anchovies.

Is Imperia or Split Better for Nightlife?

Split is a must-visit destination for its evening party scene. Also, Imperia is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for nightlife.

Split is a world class party destination. 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.

With a handful of venues, visitors can find a fairly lively vibe in Imperia. There are some bars and lively restaurants around town where you can spend an enjoyable evening.

Is Imperia or Split Better for Resorts?

Split is notable for its resorts. However, Imperia 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.

Imperia is not a resort destination.

Is Imperia or Split Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Split is notable for snorkeling and scuba diving. However, Imperia 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.

Imperia is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Imperia or Split Better for Beaches?

Split is notable for the beach. However, Imperia 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.

Imperia is not a beach destination.

Is Imperia or Split Better for its Old Town?

Split is a popular place for its historic old town charm. However, Imperia does not have a historic old town.

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.

Imperia does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Imperia or Split?

Split is notable for its shopping areas. Also, Imperia is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit 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 Imperia. There are some shopping streets in town that have a mix of local brands and standard clothing shops.

Is Imperia or Split Better for Families?

Split is notable for its family-friendly activities. Also, Imperia is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit 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.

Imperia is a family-friendly town. There's some nice walking trails in the countryside that the kids will enjoy.

Is Imperia or Split Better for Couples?

Split is a must-visit destination for couples. Also, Imperia is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit 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.

Imperia is a nice destination for couples. It's a beautiful town with a nice atmosphere that offers a nice break from the tourist crowds.

Is Imperia or Split Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Split is a must-visit destination for backpackers. Also, Imperia is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit 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.

Imperia is popular with backpackers and budget travelers. Accommodation tends to be affordable and there's an off-the-beaten-path vibe that some backpackers will appreciate.

Is Imperia or Split Better for Students?

Split is notable for students. However, Imperia 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.

Imperia is not popular with students.

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

Both Imperia and Split offer good public transit options.

Imperia has a few public transit options. There are buses that connect the city to different areas.

Split has some public transit options. There are bus services that will help you get around town.

Is Imperia or Split a more walkable city?

Split is notable for its ease of walking around. Also, Imperia is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for its walkability.

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.

Imperia is somewhat walkable. Parts of the town are convenient to walk around.

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

Should I spend more time in Split or Imperia?

How long in Imperia or Split?

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

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

In Imperia, many people enjoy the shopping and museums that this undiscovered destination offers. 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, 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 Imperia or Split?

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

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 Imperia or Split?

Imperia is a fun place to experience. Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the destination of Imperia. 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 Imperia or Split?

You'll find food and shopping around the undiscovered destination of Imperia. 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 Walking Tours in Italy, The Best Luxury Tours to Italy, The Best Walking Tours in Croatia, and The Best Luxury Tours to Croatia.

When comparing the travel costs between Imperia 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 Imperia Expensive? and Is Split Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Imperia or Split?

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

Both Split and Imperia during the summer are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Imperia 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.

In July, Imperia is generally around the same temperature as Split. Daily temperatures in Imperia average around 25°C (76°F), and Split fluctuates around 26°C (80°F).

In Split, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Imperia. In the summer, Imperia often gets less sunshine than Split. Imperia gets 295 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Split receives 345 hours of full sun.

Imperia usually gets less rain in July than Split. Imperia gets 12 mm (0.5 in) of rain, while Split receives 28 mm (1.1 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Imperia or Split in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Imperia and Split. The autumn months attract visitors to Imperia 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.

Imperia is around the same temperature as Split in the autumn. The daily temperature in Imperia averages around 19°C (66°F) in October, and Split fluctuates around 18°C (64°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Split this time of the year. Imperia usually receives less sunshine than Split during autumn. Imperia gets 183 hours of sunny skies, while Split receives 200 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Imperia usually receives more rain than Split. Imperia gets 97 mm (3.8 in) of rain, while Split receives 79 mm (3.1 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Imperia or Split in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Imperia as well as Split. The museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Imperia this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Split for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

In the winter, Imperia is a little warmer than Split. Typically, the winter temperatures in Imperia in January average around 11°C (51°F), and Split averages at about 8°C (47°F).

In the winter, Imperia often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Split. Imperia gets 127 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Split receives 128 hours of full sun.

Imperia usually gets less rain in January than Split. Imperia gets 71 mm (2.8 in) of rain, while Split receives 83 mm (3.3 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Imperia or Split in the Spring?

Both Split and Imperia are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Imperia for the natural beauty. Also, many visitors come to Split in the spring for the beaches and the activities around the city.

In April, Imperia is generally around the same temperature as Split. Daily temperatures in Imperia average around 15°C (58°F), and Split fluctuates around 15°C (59°F).

It's quite sunny in Split. Imperia usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Split during spring. Imperia gets 198 hours of sunny skies, while Split receives 212 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Imperia usually receives around the same amount of rain as Split. Imperia 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 Imperia