A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Mainz vs. Split for Couples, Backpackers, Attractions, and Food

Should you visit Mainz or Split?

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

Trying to figure out where to travel next? This travel comparison between Mainz and Split can help. It includes a travel cost comparison in addition to other factors. For many travelers, the cost of a destination is a primary consideration when choosing where to go.

Mainz

Mainz is a historic, quaint, and charming town. The beauty of this spot is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. Visitors also love the shopping, museums, and food.

Split

Split is a historic, active, and touristy city. Since it's a large city, you'll find plenty of things to do. Other reasons to visit include beaches, shopping, and museums.

Mainz and Split: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Mainz or Split?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Split. Although Mainz and Split are popular destinations, Split has more sights and attractions for tourists. Split is very popular for its museums, nightlife, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, shopping, and big city activities, while Mainz attracts visitors for its historical sights and impressive beauty. Split is more touristy than Mainz and is known for its historical sights, high energy coastal setting, and waterfront promenades. It is also well known for Diocletian's Palace. Mainz is famous for its quaint old town, Roman heritage, and beautiful town squares.

How is Mainz different from Split?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Split is a very popular place for its museums and history. Also, Mainz is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its museums and landmarks.

You'll find a good number of museums and monuments packed into Split. 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.

Mainz offers a variety of museums and landmarks to choose from. It's an old university town with a number of historical sights. Check out the Church of St. Stephan, Mainz Cathedral, the Gutenberg Museum, and the Museum of Ancient Seafaring.

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

Local dishes at restaurants are fun to try in both Mainz and Split.

The food selection at local restaurants is excellent in Mainz. There are plenty of restaurants and cafes that serve local food. There are also wine taverns where you can sample the local wines and dine of regional specialties.

Eating is part of the travel experience when you visit Split. 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 Mainz or Split Better for Nightlife?

Split is terrific for nightlife. However, Mainz is lacking in good options for nightlife and partying.

Split is a must-see 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.

Things get quiet in the evenings in Mainz. It's a sleepy little town, so even locals often head to bigger cities for better nightlife.

Is Mainz or Split Better for Resorts?

Split is a very popular place for its luxury resorts. However, Mainz is not a resort destination.

In Split, you'll find some of the region's top resorts. 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.

Mainz is not a resort destination.

Is Mainz or Split Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Split is a very popular place for the nearby scuba diving and snorkeling. However, Mainz is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Split is an extremely popular place to visit for scuba diving and snorkeling. 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.

Mainz is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Mainz or Split Better for Beaches?

Split is a very popular place for its beaches. However, Mainz is not a beach destination.

The beaches at Split attract visitors from all over. 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.

Mainz is not a beach destination.

Is Mainz or Split Better for its Old Town?

Mainz 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 Mainz. Filled with beautiful squares and cobblestone streets, this is a nice old town in a pleasant city.

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 Mainz or Split?

Split is a very popular place for shopping. Also, Mainz is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its shopping opportunities.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting 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.

Mainz offers some nice shopping areas. Head to the boulevard of Am Brand near the cathedral for some of the town's best shopping. There are shops that line the street and it's a nice area to walk around.

Is Mainz or Split Better for Families?

Split is a very popular place for its kid-friendly activities. However, Mainz is lacking in good options for its family-friendly activities.

Split is a very family-friendly destination. 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.

Mainz doesn't usually come to mind when thinking about kid-friendly destinations. Kids will enjoy the Gutenburg Museum and the outdoor spaces where they can run around. There's also a nice old town that everyone will have fun exploring.

Is Mainz or Split Better for Couples?

Split is terrific for romance. Also, Mainz is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its romantic activities.

Split is a great city for couples, as it 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.

Couples visit Mainz frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. Located on the Rhine River, this scenic setting is popular for river cruises. The town is nice to explore on its own, or you can hop around and take in several of the German river towns. You can also sit at outdoor cafes and sip local wine.

Is Mainz or Split Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Split is terrific for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Mainz is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for backpackers.

Many backpackers frequent Split. 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.

Plenty of backpackers visit Mainz. The town is popular with river cruises but you'll also find a hostel or two where budget travelers can save some money and meet other backpackers.

Is Mainz or Split Better for Students?

Both Mainz and Split are very good destinations for students.

Students come from all over to stay in Mainz. It's a university town with a pleasant atmosphere and a beautiful setting.

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.

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

Mainz 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 Mainz can get you to some places easily. There are regional trains that make it easy to use Mainz as a base to explore the area, or you could visit Mainz as a day trip from another nearby 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 Mainz or Split a more walkable city?

Mainz 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 Mainz. The town is easily explored 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 Mainz Worth Visiting? and Is Split Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Split or Mainz?

How long in Mainz or Split?

It's fun to spend time in either Mainz or Split. In our opinion, Split has more to see and do, so we recommend spending more time in Split than Mainz. However, 2-4 days is a good amount of time to spend in either destination.

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

In Mainz, many people enjoy the food and shopping that this charming destination offers. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. This town 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.

In Split, many people enjoy the food and scuba diving and snorkeling that this touristy 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 Mainz or Split?

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

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 Mainz or Split?

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

You'll find food and shopping around the charming destination of Mainz. 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 fun-filled 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 Family-Friendly Tours to Germany, The Best Hiking & Trekking Tours in Germany, The Best Walking Tours in Croatia, and The Best Luxury Tours to Croatia.

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

Which is Bigger, Mainz or Split?

Mainz has a larger population, and is about 5% larger than the population of Split. When comparing the sizes of Mainz 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 Mainz 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 Mainz or Split in the Summer?

Both Split and Mainz are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. The family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Mainz this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Split for the beaches, snorkeling, the city activities, and the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Mainz is cooler than Split. Typically, the summer temperatures in Mainz in July average around 19°C (66°F), and Split averages at about 26°C (80°F).

It's quite sunny in Split. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Mainz. Mainz usually receives less sunshine than Split during summer. Mainz gets 225 hours of sunny skies, while Split receives 345 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Mainz usually receives more rain than Split. Mainz gets 63 mm (2.5 in) of rain, while Split receives 28 mm (1.1 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Mainz or Split in the Autumn?

Both Split and Mainz during the autumn are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Mainz for the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area. Furthermore, many visitors come to Split in the autumn for the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene.

In October, Mainz is generally much colder than Split. Daily temperatures in Mainz average around 11°C (51°F), and Split fluctuates around 18°C (64°F).

In Split, it's very sunny this time of the year. In the autumn, Mainz often gets less sunshine than Split. Mainz gets 103 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Split receives 200 hours of full sun.

Mainz usually gets less rain in October than Split. Mainz gets 51 mm (2 in) of rain, while Split receives 79 mm (3.1 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Mainz or Split in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Mainz and Split. Many visitors come to Mainz in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Furthermore, most visitors come to Split for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months.

Mainz can get quite cold in the winter. Mainz is much colder than Split in the winter. The daily temperature in Mainz averages around 2°C (35°F) in January, and Split fluctuates around 8°C (47°F).

Mainz usually receives less sunshine than Split during winter. Mainz gets 41 hours of sunny skies, while Split receives 128 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Mainz usually receives less rain than Split. Mainz gets 44 mm (1.7 in) of rain, while Split receives 83 mm (3.3 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Mainz or Split in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Mainz as well as Split. Most visitors come to Mainz for the natural beauty during these months. Additionally, the spring months attract visitors to Split because of the beaches and the activities around the city.

In the spring, Mainz is cooler than Split. Typically, the spring temperatures in Mainz in April average around 11°C (51°F), and Split averages at about 15°C (59°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Split. In the spring, Mainz often gets less sunshine than Split. Mainz gets 163 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Split receives 212 hours of full sun.

Mainz usually gets less rain in April than Split. Mainz 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 Mainz