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

Should you visit Nafplio or Split?

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

Should I visit Nafplio 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.

Nafplio

Nafplio is a beautiful, picturesque, and romantic city. The beauty of this spot is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. Visitors also love the food, beaches, and shopping.

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. It's also popular because of the museums, nightlife, and food.

Nafplio and Split: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Nafplio or Split?

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

How is Nafplio different from Split?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

You'll find a number of superb museums and attractions in both Split and Nafplio.

Nafplio offers many unique museums, sights, and landmarks that will make for a memorable trip. There are a number of historic sights that are accessible from the town. One of the most iconic sights is the Palamidi Castle. You'll also find several fortresses in the area. There's also an archeological museum in town as well as the Folklore Museum.

Many visitors head to Split specifically to visit some of its top-rated museums and other sights. 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 Nafplio or Split? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Both Nafplio and Split offer a number of superb restaurants to choose from.

Nafplio has a number of nationally recognized food spots and restaurants. The local restaurants serve up traditional Greek dishes that are local to the region and country. You'll find fresh seafood on most menus as well as moussaka, souvlaki, the famous Greek salad.

With its innovative style combined with traditional elements, Split makes for a great culinary experience. 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 Nafplio or Split Better for Nightlife?

Split is a must-visit destination for its evening party scene. Also, Nafplio is not quite as popular, but is fairly good 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.

The people in Nafplio know how to have a good time. You'll find a good concentration of bars and clubs along the waterfront. There are also a number of smaller bars and cafes near Syntagma Square and the nearby streets. In the later hours, many bars turn up the music and turn into dance clubs.

Is Nafplio or Split Better for Resorts?

Split is an excellent place to visit for its luxury resorts. However, Nafplio 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.

Nafplio is not a resort destination.

Is Nafplio or Split Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Split is an excellent place to visit for snorkeling and scuba diving. However, Nafplio 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.

Nafplio is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Nafplio or Split Better for Beaches?

Split is an excellent place to visit for the beach. Also, Nafplio is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its beaches.

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.

Many people head to Nafplio to enjoy the beach. If you head outside of the city, you'll find some nice beaches where you can spend a day. The most notable beaches in the area are Tolo, Kandia, and Nea Kios.

Is Nafplio or Split Better for its Old Town?

Nafplio 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 Nafplio. The charming old town spreads out from Syntagma Square. It's a great place to start your day with many cafes spilling into the streets.

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 Nafplio or Split?

Split is an excellent place to visit for its shopping areas. Also, Nafplio is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for shopping.

Many visitors explore the shopping areas 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.

Nafplio is a great destination for shopping. Shopping in the old town is charming, but for the best retail options, you'll actually want to visit the new town. There are a variety of clothing and fashion outlets, with some of the best shopping streets being Sidiras Merarchias, Argous, and Asklipiou.

Is Nafplio or Split Better for Families?

Split is an excellent place to visit for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Nafplio is not quite as popular, but is fairly good 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.

You'll find plenty of kid-friendly things to do in Nafplio. The charming, car-free center is fun to explore for all ages. There are several archeological sights around town as well as playgrounds and a great castle.

Is Nafplio or Split Better for Couples?

Split is a must-visit destination for couples. Also, Nafplio is not quite as popular, but is fairly good 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.

Couples visit Nafplio frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. Many people consider this to be one of the most romantic towns in Greece. You can explore the quaint village center and sample the cuisine at one of the many restaurants. It's easy to reach from Athens and the seaside setting is perfect any time of the year.

Is Nafplio or Split Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Split is a must-visit destination for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Nafplio is not quite as popular, but is fairly good 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.

Nafplio is popular with backpackers and budget travelers. There are pensions and other affordable accommodation options around town, if you decide to spend a night here.

Is Nafplio or Split Better for Students?

Split is an excellent place to visit for its student-friendly activities. However, Nafplio 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.

Nafplio is not popular with students.

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

Visitors will find good public transit in both Nafplio and Split.

Nafplio has some public transit options. There are buses through the region that are operated by KTEL Argolidas. Most routes leave from the central bus station.

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 Nafplio or Split a more walkable city?

Nafplio 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 Nafplio. There are parts of the center of town that are car-free and there are many great areas that you can explore 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 Nafplio Worth Visiting? and Is Split Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Split or Nafplio?

How long in Nafplio or Split?

It's fun to spend time in either Nafplio or Split. Generally, people tend to spend more time in Split due to the larger number of activities and things to do. Usually, 2-3 days is a good amount of time for Nafplio, and 2-4 days is enough time in Split.

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

In Nafplio, many people enjoy the shopping and museums that this beautiful destination offers. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. 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.

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 Nafplio or Split?

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

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

You'll find food and shopping around the romantic destination of Nafplio. 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 Luxury Tours to Greece, The Best Budget Tours to Greece, The Best Walking Tours in Croatia, and The Best Luxury Tours to Croatia.

When comparing the travel costs between Nafplio and Split, we can see that Nafplio 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 Nafplio Expensive? and Is Split Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Nafplio or Split?

Split has a larger population, and is about 10 times larger than the population of Nafplio. When comparing the sizes of Nafplio 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 Nafplio 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 Nafplio or Split in the Summer?

Both Split and Nafplio are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Nafplio for the beaches and 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, Nafplio is generally around the same temperature as Split. Daily temperatures in Nafplio average around 25°C (76°F), and Split fluctuates around 26°C (80°F).

It's quite sunny in Split. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Nafplio. Nafplio usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Split during summer. Nafplio gets 352 hours of sunny skies, while Split receives 345 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Nafplio usually receives less rain than Split. Nafplio gets 4 mm (0.2 in) of rain, while Split receives 28 mm (1.1 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Nafplio or Split in the Autumn?

Both Split and Nafplio during the autumn are popular places to visit. The autumn months attract visitors to Nafplio 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.

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

In Split, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Nafplio. In the autumn, Nafplio often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Split. Nafplio gets 202 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Split receives 200 hours of full sun.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Nafplio. Nafplio usually gets more rain in October than Split. Nafplio gets 100 mm (3.9 in) of rain, while Split receives 79 mm (3.1 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Nafplio or Split in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Nafplio and Split. The museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Nafplio this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Split for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

In the winter, Nafplio is a little warmer than Split. Typically, the winter temperatures in Nafplio in January average around 10°C (51°F), and Split averages at about 8°C (47°F).

Nafplio usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Split during winter. Nafplio gets 135 hours of sunny skies, while Split receives 128 hours of full sun in the winter.

Nafplio gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In January, Nafplio usually receives more rain than Split. Nafplio gets 113 mm (4.4 in) of rain, while Split receives 83 mm (3.3 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Nafplio or Split in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Nafplio as well as Split. Many travelers come to Nafplio for the beaches and the natural beauty. Also, many visitors come to Split in the spring for the beaches and the activities around the city.

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

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Split. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Nafplio this time of the year. In the spring, Nafplio often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Split. Nafplio gets 217 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Split receives 212 hours of full sun.

Nafplio usually gets less rain in April than Split. Nafplio gets 48 mm (1.9 in) of rain, while Split receives 66 mm (2.6 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Split and Nafplio