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

Should you visit Lucerne 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 Lucerne 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.

Lucerne

Lucerne is a vibrant, scenic, and active city. It's a large city, so you'll find plenty of things to do around town. The beauty of this spot is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. Visitors also love the food, shopping, and museums.

Split

Split is a active, touristy, and fun-filled city. Because this is such a big city, visitors will find many sights and attractions around town. It's also popular because of the museums, nightlife, and food.

Lucerne and Split: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Lucerne or Split?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Split than Lucerne, as it is bigger with more sights, attractions, and activities for visitors. Split is more popular for its food, nightlife, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, and beaches, while Lucerne is known for its historical sights and impressive beauty. Split is more touristy than Lucerne and is known for its historical sights, high energy coastal setting, and waterfront promenades. It is also home to Diocletian's Palace. Lucerne is popular for it's wooden bridge, its waterfront setting, and the many nearby alpine day trips.

How is Lucerne different from Split?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

You'll find a number of excellent museums and attractions in both Split and Lucerne.

Visitors can fill many days exploring the museums and attractions around Lucerne. Top sights in town include the famous Chapel Bridge, the Lion Monument and the town walls and towers. There are also a number of museums including the Swiss Transport Museum and Museum Sammlung Rosengart.

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 Lucerne or Split? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Split is great for its local flavors and cuisine. Also, Lucerne is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its local cuisine and restaurants.

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.

Lucerne offers number of good local restaurants to choose from. Food is expensive around town, but there are some unique specialties like fondue, brätwurst, and of course, chocolate. It's nice to sit out by the river and enjoy a hearty meal while you soak up the view.

Is Lucerne or Split Better for Nightlife?

Split is very popular for its evening party scene. Also, Lucerne is not as popular, but is still a nice city for nightlife.

Split is a party destination, and you'll find plenty of activity all night long. 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.

Lucerne has plenty to do after the sun goes down. The city has some of the best nightlife in Switzerland, with many lively clubs, bars, and pubs. There are also many local events that are hosted in town and bring in a crowd.

Is Lucerne or Split Better for Resorts?

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

Lucerne is not a resort destination.

Is Lucerne or Split Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Split is great for snorkeling and scuba diving. However, Lucerne 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.

Lucerne is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Lucerne or Split Better for Beaches?

Split is great for the beach. However, Lucerne 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.

Lucerne is not a beach destination.

Is Lucerne or Split Better for its Old Town?

Lucerne 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 Lucerne. Sitting on the water's edge, this old town has a number of historic buildings and the beautiful Chapel Bridge.

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 Lucerne or Split?

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

Many visitors explore the shopping areas in Lucerne. The city is filled with high end shopping opportunities with everything from boutique shops to major chains. Popular items to purchase in town include chocolate, watches, jewelry, and Swiss army knives.

Split is an extremely popular place for shoppers. 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 Lucerne or Split Better for Families?

Split is great for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Lucerne is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its family-friendly activities.

You'll find plenty of family-friendly things to do in Split. 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.

Lucerne is a family-friendly place to visit. The city is filled with history and there are a number of playgrounds around town. Also make sure you pop in a chocolate shop so that everyone can enjoy a sweet treat. If the weather's warm, you can also take a swim in Lake Lucerne. Many kids enjoy escaping the city and doing a day trip to the amazing Mt. Titlis, or other peaks that are nearby.

Is Lucerne or Split Better for Couples?

Split is very popular for couples. Also, Lucerne is not as popular, but is still a nice city for romance.

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.

Lucerne is a very popular place to visit for couples. The city has many pleasant squares, excellent restaurants, and a romantic atmosphere that makes for a great couple's getaway. There are a number of nice hotels to choose from as well.

Is Lucerne or Split Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Split is very popular for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Lucerne is not a good destination for backpackers.

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

Lucerne is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. Prices are high everywhere in the area but there are a few hostels that attract backpackers. It's also possible to find free activities like swimming in the lake or simply wandering around town. Prices at restaurants are very high, so you'll do best to pick up food at supermarkets and prepare your own meals. Because it's a larger city, there are options that you might not find in smaller towns around Switzerland.

Is Lucerne or Split Better for Students?

Split is great for its student-friendly activities. However, Lucerne is not a good destination for students.

Many students visit Split. 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.

Lucerne is a decent spot for students. Most people don't think of the city as a student town but there are some good opportunities for international students. The prices are high, but the city is surrounded by stunning natural beauty that is fun to explore.

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

Lucerne and Split both offer good public transit to get you around.

While Lucerne offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. There's a comprehensive system of buses around town.

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

Is Lucerne or Split a more walkable city?

Split is great for its ease of walking around. Also, Lucerne is not as popular, but is still a nice city 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.

Lucerne is somewhat walkable. The major tourist areas are fairly walkable if your hotel is in a convenient location.

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

Should I spend more time in Split or Lucerne?

How long in Lucerne or Split?

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

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

In Lucerne, many people enjoy the shopping and museums that this scenic destination offers. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. This city 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 Lucerne or Split?

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

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 Lucerne or Split?

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

You'll find food and shopping around the scenic destination of Lucerne. 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.

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 One Week (7-Day) Tours in Switzerland, The Best 2-Week Tours in Switzerland, The Best Walking Tours in Croatia, and The Best Luxury Tours to Croatia.

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

Which is Bigger, Lucerne or Split?

Split has a larger population, and is about 3 times larger than the population of Lucerne. When comparing the sizes of Lucerne 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 Lucerne 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 Lucerne or Split in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Lucerne and Split. The summer months attract visitors to Lucerne because of the city activities and the family-friendly experiences. Also, the beaches, snorkeling, the city activities, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Split this time of year.

In July, Lucerne is generally cooler than Split. Daily temperatures in Lucerne average around 21°C (70°F), and Split fluctuates around 26°C (80°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Split this time of the year. In Lucerne, it's very sunny this time of the year. Lucerne usually receives less sunshine than Split during summer. Lucerne gets 241 hours of sunny skies, while Split receives 345 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Lucerne usually receives more rain than Split. Lucerne gets 89 mm (3.5 in) of rain, while Split receives 28 mm (1.1 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Lucerne or Split in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Lucerne as well as Split. The city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Lucerne this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Split for the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene.

Lucerne is cooler than Split in the autumn. The daily temperature in Lucerne averages around 13°C (56°F) in October, and Split fluctuates around 18°C (64°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Split. In the autumn, Lucerne often gets less sunshine than Split. Lucerne gets 120 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Split receives 200 hours of full sun.

Lucerne usually gets less rain in October than Split. Lucerne gets 70 mm (2.8 in) of rain, while Split receives 79 mm (3.1 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Lucerne or Split in the Winter?

Both Split and Lucerne are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Lucerne 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 Lucerne. In the winter, Lucerne is much colder than Split. Typically, the winter temperatures in Lucerne in January average around 3°C (37°F), and Split averages at about 8°C (47°F).

Lucerne usually receives less sunshine than Split during winter. Lucerne gets 55 hours of sunny skies, while Split receives 128 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Lucerne usually receives less rain than Split. Lucerne gets 77 mm (3 in) of rain, while Split receives 83 mm (3.3 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Lucerne or Split in the Spring?

Both Split and Lucerne during the spring are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Lucerne in the spring for the activities around the city and the natural beauty. Furthermore, most visitors come to Split for the beaches and the activities around the city during these months.

In April, Lucerne is generally cooler than Split. Daily temperatures in Lucerne average around 12°C (53°F), and Split fluctuates around 15°C (59°F).

In Split, it's very sunny this time of the year. In the spring, Lucerne often gets less sunshine than Split. Lucerne gets 150 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Split receives 212 hours of full sun.

Lucerne usually gets more rain in April than Split. Lucerne gets 79 mm (3.1 in) of rain, while Split receives 66 mm (2.6 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Split and Lucerne