A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Milan vs. Split for Food, Nightlife, Old Town, and Couples

Should you visit Milan 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 Milan 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.

Milan

Milan is a trendy, chic, and cultural city. With plenty of activities and things to do, it's a huge city that draws plenty of visitors. It's considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. Visitors also love the live music, food, and shopping.

Split

Split is a historic, active, and touristy 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.

Milan and Split: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Milan or Split?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Milan than Split, as it is bigger with more sights, attractions, and activities for visitors. Milan is more popular for its food, music, historical sights, shopping, big city activities, and impressive beauty, while Split is known for its resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, and beaches. Split is more touristy than Milan and is known for its historical sights, high energy coastal setting, and waterfront promenades. Milan is popular for its grand squares, dramatic architecture, and its leadership in the fashion world. It is also home to Piazza del Duomo.

How is Milan different from Split?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

You'll find a number of very good museums and attractions in both Split and Milan.

You'll find a good number of museums and monuments packed into Milan. The Milan Cathedral is the most famous landmark in the city, but other sights include Castello Sforzesco, Pinacoteca di Brera, and Sant'Ambrogio.

Visitors can fill many days exploring the museums and attractions around 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.

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

Milan is terrific for its restaurants. Also, Split is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its restaurant scene.

Eat your way through Milan, as it has many local or world renowned restaurants to choose from. The city has a mix of traditional dishes combined with modernized, trendy restaurants. You can try a new dish by a groundbreaking chef, or sample a long running favorite like risotto alla Milanese.

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.

Is Milan or Split Better for Nightlife?

The vibe at night is fantastic in both Milan and Split.

Milan has a colorful and one-of-a-kind nightlife scene. The city has a huge number of students and young professionals, which make it a fun place with an active nightlife. There are cocktail bars, trendy clubs, and relaxed pubs that you can chose from.

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.

Is Milan or Split Better for Music?

Milan is terrific for its live music scene. However, Split is not a live music destination.

With so many music venues, you're guaranteed a show any night of the week in Milan. The diversity of music ranges from classical concerts to techno raves. Popular venues include Blue Note Milan, Santeria Social Club, and Spirit de Milan.

Split is not a live music destination.

Is Milan or Split Better for Resorts?

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

Milan is not a resort destination.

Is Milan or Split Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

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

Milan is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Milan or Split Better for Beaches?

Split is great for the beach. However, Milan 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.

Milan is not a beach destination.

Is Milan or Split Better for its Old Town?

Milan is terrific for its old town. Also, Split is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its historic old town charm.

Milan has a unique history which comes to life in its historic area. Known as the Centro Storic, this area is the most popular with tourists. It's where you'll find the most historic buildings and beautiful sights in the 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 Milan or Split?

Milan is terrific for its shopping opportunities. Also, Split is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its shopping areas.

Known for shopping, Milan draws large crowds to its stores. Famous as the fashion capital of Italy, shopping is the thing to do here. There are many streets that are lined with the biggest designers in fashion. Make sure you check out Via Monte Napoleone, Via Della Spiga, and Corso Buenos Aires.

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.

Is Milan or Split Better for Families?

Split is great for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Milan 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.

Milan is a family-friendly place to visit. The city has a science museum and a children's museum, MuBa, that is great for the kids. There are also a number of parks to explore as well as playgrounds where the kids and get out their energy.

Is Milan or Split Better for Couples?

Split is an amazing city to visit for couples. Also, Milan is not as popular, but is still a nice city for romance.

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.

Milan is a very popular place to visit for couples. There are many beautiful buildings, excellent shopping, and romantic restaurants that make for a wonderful couple's getaway.

Is Milan or Split Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Split is an amazing city to visit for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Milan is not as popular, but is still a nice city 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.

Backpackers come from all over to visit Milan. While not as popular with backpackers as some Italian city's, there are a number of hostels and great activities that are fun for visitors.

Is Milan or Split Better for Students?

Milan is terrific for its student-friendly activities. Also, Split is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for students.

Milan is a very popular place to visit for students. It is one of the more popular city's for international students in Italy. It is very livable with a lot of culture and a fun nightlife, so you're sure to have the experience of a lifetime.

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.

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

Milan is terrific for times when you don't have a car. Also, Split is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its public transit.

The thorough and effecient public transit system of Milan can take you anywhere. Options include metro, bus, tram, and train lines.

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 Milan or Split a more walkable city?

Milan 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 Milan. In particular, the city center is walkable.

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 Milan Worth Visiting? and Is Split Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Split or Milan?

How long in Milan or Split?

It's fun to spend time in either Milan or Split. Generally, people tend to spend more time in Milan due to the larger number of activities and things to do. Usually, 1-5 days is a good amount of time for Milan, and 2-4 days is enough time in Split.

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

One day in Milan or Split?

Each neighborhood in Milan has its own distinct appeal, so there are pleny of areas to explore. 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, 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 Milan or Split?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Milan. 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 Milan or Split?

Milan is a fun place to experience. Each neighborhood in Milan has its own distinct appeal, so there are pleny of areas to explore. Visiting the old town is also a must. This would be the perfect place to spend five days, as it has just the right amount of activities.

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 Milan or Split?

You'll find museums and nightlife around the cultural big city of Milan. 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 historic 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 Sightseeing Tours in Italy, The Best Vineyard & Wine Tours in Italy, The Best Walking Tours in Croatia, and The Best Luxury Tours to Croatia.

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

Which is Bigger, Milan or Split?

Milan has a larger population, and is about 7 times larger than the population of Split. When comparing the sizes of Milan 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 Milan 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 Milan or Split in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Milan and Split. The city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Milan this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Split for the beaches, snorkeling, the city activities, and the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Milan is generally cooler than Split. Daily temperatures in Milan average around 23°C (73°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 Milan, it's very sunny this time of the year. Milan usually receives less sunshine than Split during summer. Milan gets 250 hours of sunny skies, while Split receives 345 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Milan usually receives more rain than Split. Milan gets 60 mm (2.4 in) of rain, while Split receives 28 mm (1.1 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Milan or Split in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Milan as well as Split. Many travelers come to Milan for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area. Also, many visitors come to Split in the autumn for the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene.

Milan is cooler than Split in the autumn. The daily temperature in Milan averages around 15°C (58°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, Milan often gets less sunshine than Split. Milan gets 152 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Split receives 200 hours of full sun.

Milan receives a lot of rain in the autumn. Milan usually gets more rain in October than Split. Milan gets 103 mm (4 in) of rain, while Split receives 79 mm (3.1 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Milan or Split in the Winter?

Both Split and Milan are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Milan in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, most visitors come to Split for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months.

Milan can get quite cold in the winter. In the winter, Milan is much colder than Split. Typically, the winter temperatures in Milan in January average around 5°C (41°F), and Split averages at about 8°C (47°F).

Milan usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Split during winter. Milan gets 119 hours of sunny skies, while Split receives 128 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Milan usually receives less rain than Split. Milan gets 68 mm (2.7 in) of rain, while Split receives 83 mm (3.3 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Milan or Split in the Spring?

Both Split and Milan during the spring are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Milan for the activities around the city and the natural beauty during these months. Furthermore, the spring months attract visitors to Split because of the beaches and the activities around the city.

In April, Milan is generally cooler than Split. Daily temperatures in Milan average around 13°C (55°F), and Split fluctuates around 15°C (59°F).

In Split, it's very sunny this time of the year. In the spring, Milan often gets less sunshine than Split. Milan gets 176 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Split receives 212 hours of full sun.

Milan usually gets more rain in April than Split. Milan gets 76 mm (3 in) of rain, while Split receives 66 mm (2.6 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Split and Milan