A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Ios vs. Split for Nightlife, Beaches, Couples, and Backpackers

Should you visit Ios or Split?

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

Should I visit Ios 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.

Ios

Ios is a touristy, backpacker-friendly, and historical island. The beauty of this spot is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. Visitors also love the hiking, 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. And you can't forget about the shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Ios and Split: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Good scuba and snorkeling destination
  • Popular beach
  • Good for hiking
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Impressive beauty
Things to Consider
  • Less family-friendly
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Good scuba and snorkeling destination
  • Popular beach
  • Scenic old town
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good for students


Is there more to do in Ios or Split?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Split than Ios, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Split is better known for its museums, scuba diving & snorkeling, historical sights, shopping, and big city activities, while Ios is more popular for its beaches, hiking, and impressive beauty. Split is more touristy than Ios and is popular for its historical sights, high energy coastal setting, and waterfront promenades. Also, Split is famous for Diocletian's Palace. Ios is well known for its party hard atmosphere that attracts a younger and rowdier crowd.

How is Ios different from Split?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Ios
Split

Split is notable for its sights and museums. Also, Ios is not as famous, but is still a good island 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.

If you're looking for an educational opportunity, there are a decent number of museums and historical sights around Ios. If you can pull yourself away from the beaches or parties, there are a number of archaeological and historic sights around the island. Churches like Panayia Gremiotissa Church and Evangelisimos Cathedral are worth visiting. Other attractions include Odysseas Elytis Theatre, Homer’s Tomb, and Skarkos Hill.


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

Ios
Split

Both Ios and Split offer superb local cuisine and restaurants.

Eating is part of the travel experience when you visit Ios. Most of the island's restaurants are found in the port area or in the town of Chora, but you'll also find several options near Mylopotas Beach. Most restaurants offer typical Greek dishes, but they often have a local twist. You'll often find local cheeses or a slightly different take on an old favorite. Popular ingredients include cheese, yogurt, fish, olives, honey, olive oil, and grains. Common meats include lamb, beef, and even rabbit, but seafood is obviously popular as well.

Split has a number of nationally recognized food spots and 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 Ios or Split Better for Nightlife?

Ios
Split

Evening events are amazing in both Ios and Split.

Ios is a party destination, and you'll find plenty of activity all night long. This is one of the quintessential party islands in Greece. Many young backpackers come here just to party, particularly during the summer months. You'll find many parties start around midnight or later and carry on well into the morning. Most of the clubs and bars are around the main square and nearby streets in Chora, but there are also clubs spread throughout the town. Outside of town, Mylopotas Beach is another popular party area.

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.

Is Ios or Split Better for Resorts?

Ios
Split

Ios and Split offer a relatively similar set of superb luxury resort options.

Ios is known as a popular and fun resort destination. There are a number of resort areas around the island with families preferring the areas around Yialos Beach and Manganari Beach. Partiers usually head to Chora and the great beaches near Mylopotas, but if you want to escape the crowds, head to Agia Theodoti.

Vacationers can choose from a number of terrific resorts in Split. 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.


Is Ios or Split Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Ios
Split

Split is notable for its diving and snorkeling. Also, Ios is not as famous, but is still a good island to visit for snorkeling and scuba diving.

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 Ios. There are some nice snorkeling and diving areas around the island as well as vendors who organize snorkeling and dive trips.

Is Ios or Split Better for Beaches?

Ios
Split

Ios is terrific for the beache. Also, Split is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for the beach.

Ios offers stunning beaches that attract visitors from around the world. The island has beautiful sandy beaches that range from family-friendly to party hard. There are popular and more developed beaches near Chora like Koumbara and Mylopotas as well as more relaxing beaches a little more removed like Kalamos and Manganari. Because of their striking beauty, the beaches around the island have been featured in a few films.

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.

Is Ios or Split Better for its Old Town?

Ios
Split

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

Many people head to Split to see the old town. 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.

Ios does not have a historic old town.


Is Ios or Split Better for Hiking?

Ios
Split

Ios is a good destination for its hiking trails. However, Split is not a hiking destination.

Ios offers some nice hiking trails. The island has a barren and rocky landscape that offers spectacular views. Many of the hikes are quite challenging, but there are a few options for beginners as well. Many also pass by the spectacular ruins around the island.

Split is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Ios or Split?

Ios
Split

Split is notable for its shopping opportunities. Also, Ios is not as famous, but is still a good island to visit for its shopping areas.

Split is a popular shopping destination with plenty of stores. 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.

Ios has a variety of shopping areas worth visiting. There are a number of local souvenirs that you can pick up. Many visitors prefer to take home unique items such as a tin of olives or olive oil. Jewelry, honey, and local ceramics also make good gifts.

Is Ios or Split Better for Families?

Ios
Split

Split is notable for its family-friendly activities. However, Ios is a mediocre island for its kid-friendly activities.

Split is a very kid-friendly city. 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.

Ios is not always a place people visit with their families. While the island is known as one of the top party destinations in Greece, it also has a more cultural side. There are impressive archaeological ruins and stunning beaches that kids will enjoy. The island also has snorkeling and plenty of kid-friendly food. Some of the best family-friendly beaches are in Manganari Bay and Yialos Beach is a nice family-friendly area.


Is Ios or Split Better for Couples?

Ios
Split

Split is very popular for its romantic activities. Also, Ios is not as famous, but is still a good island to visit 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.

Ios makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. Because it's so close to Santorini, many people visit as a day trip. While the island is synonymous with partying, there are still many world-class archaeological sites and romantic beaches that make for an active and fun honeymoon. It's a bit quieter outside of the peak summer months.

Is Ios or Split Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Ios
Split

Both Ios and Split are amazing destinations for backpackers.

Backpackers and budget travelers come from all over the world to visit Ios. For many backpackers, partying in Ios is a quintessential European experience. Nights are spent at all night clubs or beach raves, while days are spent nursing a hangover on the beach. There are plenty of venues that cater to the budget crowd, with cheap food available at different places.

A large number of backpackers visit Split, as it is a very popular island for 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.

Is Ios or Split Better for Students?

Ios
Split

Split is notable for students. However, Ios 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.

Ios is not popular with students.


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

Ios
Split

Ios 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 Ios can get you to some places easily. There are public buses that travel to most of the tourist sights around the island including several of the more remote beaches like Manganari and Agia Theodoti.

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 Ios or Split a more walkable city?

Ios
Split

Split is notable for its high level of walkability. Also, Ios is not as famous, but is still a good island to visit for its ease of walking around.

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.

Ios is a somewhat walkable island. Chora is the most walkable part of the island.

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

Should I spend more time in Split or Ios?

How long in Ios or Split?

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

Families should spend more time in Split than Ios. 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 Ios. 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 Ios 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.


  • How many days in Ios or Split? Ideal Length of Stay
    Ios 1-3 
    Split 2-4

One day in Ios or Split?

In Ios, many people enjoy the food and scuba diving and snorkeling that this historical destination offers. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. This island offers a variety of activities to choose from. Because of this, one day is usually enough time for a trip here.

With museums and nightlife around the touristy destination of Split, there's plenty to do. It's also a relaxing resort destination. One of the main draws to the area is the nightlife. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel.


A weekend in Ios or Split?

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

Many people visit Split for a weekend. With nightlife and food around the touristy city of Split, there's plenty to do. One of the main draws to the area is the nightlife. People usually spend lots of time at the beach. Because of this, a weekend is usually enough time for a trip here.

Five days in Ios or Split?

Ios is a fun place to experience. Travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the destination of Ios. 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.

The destination of Split offers food and scuba diving and snorkeling. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. It offers something for everyone. One of the main draws to the area is the nightlife. Five days 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.

A week in Ios or Split?

You'll find museums and nightlife around the backpacker-friendly destination of Ios. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

Split, a popular city, is full of activities for travelers. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. Your budget might influence how long you stay. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best One Week (7-Day) Tours in Greece, The Best 3-Day Tours in Greece, The Best Walking Tours in Croatia, and The Best Luxury Tours to Croatia.


Which place is cheaper, Split or Ios?

These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations.

The average daily cost (per person) in Ios is €91, while the average daily cost in Split is €110. These costs include accommodation (assuming double occupancy, so the traveler is sharing the room), food, transportation, and entertainment. While every person is different, these costs are an average of past travelers in each destination. What follows is a categorical breakdown of travel costs for Ios and Split in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Ios 39
    Split 74
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Ios 78
    Split 148
Compare Hotels in Ios and Split

Looking for a hotel in Ios or Split? Prices vary by location, date, season, and the level of luxury. See below for options and compare which is best for your budget and travel style.

Hotels in Ios


Hotels in Split


Kayak helps you find the best prices for hotels, flights, and rental cars for destinations around the world. Compare prices for multiple destinations when planning your next trip.


Our Analysis
We've analyzed the average and typical hotel prices based on guest reviews, star ratings, and hotel amenities here: Ios Hotel Prices and Split Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Ios 16
    Split 15

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Ios

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Ios:

  • 1-Way Private Helicopter Transfer to the Greek Islands: $2,454

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Split

Also for Split, here are a few examples of actual transportation services:

  • Diocletian's Palace & Trogir Old Town with Transfer: $15
  • Private One-way Split Airport Transfer To/From Split: $23
  • Private Transfer from Split Hotels to Cruise Port of Split: $28
  • Cruise Port of Split to Split Hotels - Arrival Private Transfer: $28
  • Private Transfer from Split Airport (SPU) to Cruise Port of Split: $28
  • Luxury private transfer: Split airport to Split: $35
  • Airport Private Transfer from Split: $37
  • Airport Private Transfer to Split : $37
  • Private Transfer from Split Airport (SPU) to Marina Aci Trogir : $41
  • Private Transfer from Split Airport (SPU) to Okrug Gornji (Island Ciovo): $41
  • Private Transfer from Split Airport (SPU) to Trogir: $41
  • Split Airport - Split Transfer: $42

Is it cheaper to fly into Ios or Split?

Prices for flights to both Split and Ios change regularly based on dates and travel demand. We suggest you find the best prices for your next trip on Kayak, because you can compare the cost of flights across multiple airlines for your prefered dates.





Food
  • Food Meals for one day
    Ios 33
    Split 24

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Split

For Split, here are some samples of tours and activities related to meals and dining experiences:

  • Small Group Food Tour: $38
  • Food Tour in Split ( Small Group): $69
  • Homemade Dinner under the Stars in Split: $85
  • Vegan Food tour of Split with local gastronomy: $103
  • Split Food Tour: Discover Split One Bite At A Time: $133
  • Split Cooking Class: $171
  • Private Authentic Wine & Food tour from Split: $242

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Ios 26
    Split 3.75

Tours and Activities in Ios

Some specific costs of activities, tours, and entrance tickets for Ios are as follows:

  • 5 -6 Hour Private Chora E-Bike Tours: $132
  • Electric Bike Tour Chora to Diaseli Cheesery: $110
  • Electric Bike Tour Chora to Homer's Tomp: $110
  • From RIB Boat Trip to Sikinos Island and Winery Tour: $86
  • Ios Island Trekking Tours: Discover Ios Unexplored: $28
  • Ios Island: Speedboat Cruise from Mylopotas Beach: $53
  • 4-Hour Cruise of the Best Beaches: $64
  • Private Orienteering Experience in Mylopotas: $165

Tours and Activities in Split

For Split, here are a few prices for actual activities, tours, and tickets provided by various companies:

  • First Discovery Walk and Reading Walking Tour: $3.26
  • Emanuel Vidović Gallery Entrance Ticket: $5.43
  • Self-Guided Highlights Scavenger Hunt & Tour: $6.52
  • City Exploration Game and Tour: $6.52
  • Split Scavenger Hunt and Best Landmarks Self-Guided Tour: $6.63
  • Entry Ticket to the Cellars of Diocletian's Palace: $8.69
  • Split's Old Town and Marjan Hill: A Self-Guided Audio Tour: $8.99
  • Split's Old Town and Marjan Hill: A Self Guided Audio Tour: $8.99
  • Roman Ruins Sightseeing Self-Guided Audio Tour: $8.99
  • Walking Tour with Audio Guide on App: $9.50
  • Klis Fortress GOT and Olive Museum Entry Tickets: $11
  • Diocletian's Palace Virtual Reality Experience: $11

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Ios 33
    Split 8.04

Sample the Local Flavors in Ios

Also in Ios, these are the prices for nightlife and alcohol related activities from various tour providers:

  • Bar Crawl Ios Ticket in Cyclades: $39

Sample the Local Flavors in Split

Also in Split, these are the prices for nightlife and alcohol related activities from various tour providers:

  • Krka & Sibenik Tour with Boat Ride, Swimming or Wine Tasting: $23
  • From Krka Waterfalls, Food & Wine Tasting Tour: $25
  • Tower Pub Crawl in Split: $30
  • Split/Trogir: Krka National Park Day Trip with Wine Tasting: $38
  • Wine Tasting and Sunset Klis Fortress Tour from Split: $39
  • Krka Waterfalls, Food & Wine Tasting tour from Split: $40
  • Krka National Park Tour with tour Guide & Wine tasting from Split & Trogir: $46
  • Wine Tasting in the Diocletian's Palace: $49
  • Small group Walking Tour and Wine Tasting: $60
  • Diocletian's Palace Walking and Wine Tasting Tour: $65
  • Vineyard Experience: Wine Tasting near Split: $77
  • Blue Lagoon & Wine tasting - 3 islands tour: $99


When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Ios and Split, we can see that Split is more expensive. And not only is Ios much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Ios would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Ios 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 Split would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Split than you might in Ios.

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


Which is Bigger, Ios or Split?

Split has a larger population, and is about 100 times larger than the population of Ios. When comparing the sizes of Ios 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.