A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Nantes vs. Split for Food, Nightlife, Couples, and Backpackers

Should you visit Nantes or Split?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Nantes or Split, this travel comparison, which includes costs, can help. The overall cost of travel is usually a consideration when deciding where to go next, and the cost comparison down below can help you decide based on the average prices from other travelers along with your own travel budget.

Nantes

Nantes is a beautiful, vibrant, and welcoming city. 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 budget-friendly, historic, and active 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.

Nantes and Split: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Nantes or Split?

Visitors will generally find more to do in Split than Nantes. While Nantes is larger than Split, Split has more sights, attractions, and activities for tourists. Split is more popular for its nightlife, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, and big city activities, while Nantes is known for its food and impressive beauty. Split is more touristy than Nantes and is known for its historical sights, high energy coastal setting, and waterfront promenades. It is also home to Diocletian's Palace. Nantes is popular for its castles and historical landmarks, local wine, and beautiful parks and gardens.

How is Nantes different from Split?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

You'll find a number of great museums and attractions in both Split and Nantes.

With a variety of museums, monuments, and historical sights, a trip to Nantes can be an interesting and educational experience. The city is filled with historical monuments, particularly in the Bouffay District. Highlights include Cathédrale Saint-Pierre-et-Saint-Paul, Château des Ducs de Bretagne, and the Musée d'Arts de Nantes.

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.

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

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

Eat your way through Nantes, as it has many local or world renowned restaurants to choose from. The region lends itself to unique flavors with a great mix of seafood from the Atlantic, freshwater fish from the Loire, and dairy from the surrounding countryside. The region is also famous for its wine. Local dishes that you should try include Filet de Sandre au Beurre Blanc (fresh fish in butter sauce), Crepes Bretonnes (breakfast crepes), and Le Canard Nantais (duck with Muscadet wine).

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 Nantes or Split Better for Nightlife?

Split is an unbeatable place for its evening party scene. Also, Nantes is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for nightlife.

The nightlife in Split is well established with world renowned clubs and venues. 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.

Nantes is a popular destination for visitors looking to party into the night. The large student population heavily influences the nightlife scene. You'll find a young vibe with a lot of bars and clubs to choose from, particularly around Île de Nantes.

Is Nantes or Split Better for Resorts?

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

Split is a popular resort destination that attracts visitors from everywhere. 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.

Nantes is not a resort destination.

Is Nantes or Split Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

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

Many visitors go to Split to enjoy 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.

Nantes is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Nantes or Split Better for Beaches?

Split is a very popular place for the beach. However, Nantes is not a beach destination.

You'll have a great beach vacation in Split. 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.

Nantes is not a beach destination.

Is Nantes or Split Better for its Old Town?

Nantes and Split both have good historical old towns that attract visitors.

Nantes has an old town worth visiting. The city's old town is in the Bouffay District and it is filled with half-timbered houses and a maze of streets and shops.

Many visitors go to Split to see the historical 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.

Is the Shopping Better in Nantes or Split?

Shoppers can find a variety of great stores in both Nantes and Split.

Many visitors explore the shopping areas in Nantes. There are impressive shopping streets, boutique stores, and grand shopping malls. Make sure you check out Rue Crébillon, Passage Pommeraye, and the shops around the Bouffay District. Talensac Market is also a historical covered market that you can explore.

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 Nantes or Split Better for Families?

Nantes and Split are both great destinations for the whole family.

You'll find plenty of family-friendly things to do in Nantes. It's filled with gardens, museums, and theme parks, making it a great combination of fascinating activities for adults and kids alike. Some of the top kid-friendly activities include a visit to Machine of the Isle of Nantes (both a theme park and a museum), seeing a show at Le Lieu Unique, or experiencing Naudières Park (a smaller theme park). Kids will also enjoy seeing Goulaine Castle or wandering around Jardin Extraordinaire or the Botanical Gardens.

Split is a very family-friendly place to visit. 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.

Is Nantes or Split Better for Couples?

Split is an unbeatable place for couples. Also, Nantes is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for romance.

Split has so much to offer for a romantic couple's vacation. 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 Nantes frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. There is a mix of both natural and historical beauty. Couples can enjoy a nice meal, stroll through one of the many parks and gardens, or even spend the day at the spa.

Is Nantes or Split Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Split is an unbeatable place for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Nantes is lacking in good options 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.

Nantes is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. There aren't as many hostels as you would expect in the area, so finding an affordable and social place to stay may be a bit challenging.

Is Nantes or Split Better for Students?

Split is a very popular place for its student-friendly activities. Also, Nantes is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for students.

Split is a great city to visit as a student. 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.

Nantes is popular with students. There's a decent sized student population and the city has a welcoming atmosphere. It's also easy to get around with public transportation.

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

Nantes 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 Nantes can get you to some places easily. There are both trams and buses throughout the city that are operated by TAN (Transport de l'Agglomeration Nantaise).

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 Nantes or Split a more walkable city?

Nantes and Split are great when it comes to walkability.

Nantes is a very walkable destination. The city is very walkable. Both locals and tourists alike choose to walk in Nantes.

Split is very walkable. 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 Nantes Worth Visiting? and Is Split Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Split or Nantes?

How long in Nantes or Split?

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

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

In Nantes, many people enjoy the shopping and museums that this beautiful destination offers. Lots of people come for the food. 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.

Many travelers enjoy the scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping when visiting the destination of Split. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

A weekend in Nantes or Split?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Nantes. For many, it makes a great getaway for a weekend. 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.

Split is a great place to explore. It is common to spend a weekend here. Don't miss the nightlife, as that's what most people do. With all of its activities, you can easily fill a weekend here. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

Five days in Nantes or Split?

Nantes is a fun place to experience. Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the destination of Nantes. Lots of people come for the food. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Split. Don't miss the nightlife, as that's what most people do. Most people come for the beaches. Five days may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

A week in Nantes or Split?

You'll find food and shopping around the historical destination of Nantes. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. Lots of people come for the food. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the touristy destination of Split. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best 10-Day Tours in France, The Best One Week (7-Day) Tours in France, The Best Walking Tours in Croatia, and The Best Luxury Tours to Croatia.

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

Which is Bigger, Nantes or Split?

Nantes has a larger population, and is about 57% larger than the population of Split. When comparing the sizes of Nantes 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 Nantes 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 Nantes or Split in the Summer?

Both Split and Nantes are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Nantes for the family-friendly experiences. Also, many visitors come to Split in the summer for the beaches, snorkeling, the city activities, and the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Nantes is generally cooler than Split. Daily temperatures in Nantes average around 19°C (67°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 Nantes. Nantes usually receives less sunshine than Split during summer. Nantes gets 267 hours of sunny skies, while Split receives 345 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Nantes usually receives more rain than Split. Nantes gets 46 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while Split receives 28 mm (1.1 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Nantes or Split in the Autumn?

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

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

In Split, it's very sunny this time of the year. In the autumn, Nantes often gets less sunshine than Split. Nantes gets 141 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Split receives 200 hours of full sun.

Nantes usually gets around the same amount of rain in October as Split. Nantes gets 79 mm (3.1 in) of rain, while Split receives 79 mm (3.1 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Nantes or Split in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Nantes and Split. Most visitors come to Nantes for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months. Furthermore, the winter months attract visitors to Split because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

In the winter, Nantes is much colder than Split. Typically, the winter temperatures in Nantes in January average around 6°C (42°F), and Split averages at about 8°C (47°F).

Nantes usually receives less sunshine than Split during winter. Nantes gets 72 hours of sunny skies, while Split receives 128 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Nantes usually receives around the same amount of rain as Split. Nantes gets 87 mm (3.4 in) of rain, while Split receives 83 mm (3.3 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Nantes or Split in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Nantes as well as Split. The spring months attract visitors to Nantes because of the natural beauty. Additionally, the beaches and the activities around the city are the main draw to Split this time of year.

In April, Nantes is generally cooler than Split. Daily temperatures in Nantes average around 11°C (51°F), and Split fluctuates around 15°C (59°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Split. In the spring, Nantes often gets less sunshine than Split. Nantes gets 187 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Split receives 212 hours of full sun.

Nantes usually gets less rain in April than Split. Nantes gets 50 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 Nantes