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

Should you visit Naples or Split?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Naples 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.

Naples

Naples is a authentic, gritty, and colorful city. Travelers will also find plenty of sights and attractions here, as it's a big city that attracts lots of visitors. 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. Other popular activities here include scuba diving and snorkeling, beaches, and shopping.

Naples and Split: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Naples or Split?

Travelers will generally find more things to do in Split than Naples. While Naples is larger than Split, Split has more sights and attractions for tourists. Split is more popular for its nightlife, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, and beaches, while Naples is known for its food, historical sights, and big city activities. Split is more touristy than Naples and is popular for its historical sights, high energy coastal setting, and waterfront promenades. It is also home to Diocletian's Palace. Naples is popular for its colorful atmosphere, long running history, and influence on world cuisine as the birthplace of pizza.

How is Naples different from Split?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

For an educational experience, head to a museum or a notable sight in either Naples or Split.

With a variety of museums, monuments, and historical sights, a trip to Naples can be an interesting and educational experience. Most of the sights are concentrated in the city's historic center. The Naples Harbor is a gateway to the Mediterranean. Also worth visiting are the National Archeological Museum, Capodimonte Royal Palace, Castel Nuovo, and the Catacombs of San Gennaro.

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 Naples or Split? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

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

Eat your way through Naples, as it has many local or world renowned restaurants to choose from. As the birthplace of pizza, the city has a well known food reputation. Many local dishes, including an authentic Napoli pizza, use simple flavors such as olive oil, garlic, and tomatoes. The dishes are lighter than their northern counterparts and tomatoes are a very popular ingredient. In addition to the pizza, you should try Lasagna Al Forno Napoletana and Spaghetti Alla Vognole. Also check out a pizza making class.

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 Naples or Split Better for Nightlife?

Split is a world-class destination for its evening party scene. Also, Naples is still popular, but not quite as popular for nightlife.

People head to Split just to party. 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.

Many people head to Naples for the nightlife scene. The nightlife scene includes small bars, wineries, and dance clubs, but much of the energy and activity is actually focused on being outdoors. There is plenty of live music and many nightclubs are actually "disco bars" that are found tucked away in the city's historic center.

Is Naples or Split Better for Resorts?

Split is well known for its resorts. However, Naples 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.

Naples is not a resort destination.

Is Naples or Split Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Split is well known for snorkeling and scuba diving. However, Naples 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.

Naples is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Naples or Split Better for Beaches?

Split is well known for the beach. However, Naples 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.

Naples is not a beach destination.

Is Naples or Split Better for its Old Town?

Naples 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 Naples. Most of the city's tourist attractions are found in the historic center, which includes beautiful fountains, grand churches, and an impressive network of catacombs and caves.

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 Naples or Split?

Shopping is a popular activity in both Split and Naples.

Browsing through shops is a popular activity in Naples. There are shopping streets and districts that have boutique clothing vendors, high end brands, and major chains. There's plenty of diversity in the shopping scene and some of the best shopping areas include Via Toledo, the Chiaia District, and Poggioreale Market.

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.

Is Naples or Split Better for Families?

Split is well known for its family-friendly activities. Also, Naples is still popular, but not quite as popular for its kid-friendly activities.

Split is known to be 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.

Naples offers lots of family activities. Despite its rough-around-the-edges reputation, the city actually has some fun kid-friendly activities. As the birthplace of pizza, a childhood favorite, eating is a kid approved activity. You can even try your hand at pizza making classes. Other fun kid-friendly activities include exploring the underground city, going to The Science Centre of Citta della Scienza, and running around Parco di Capodimonte.

Is Naples or Split Better for Couples?

Split is a world-class destination for couples. Also, Naples is still popular, but not quite as popular 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.

Naples is a great city if you're traveling as a couple. Dining on pizza, wine tasting, or taking a cruise on the Gulf of Naples all make this city a great couples destination. There are also many romantic day trips in the area, so many couples use Naples as a base for exploring the region.

Is Naples or Split Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Split is a world-class destination for backpackers. Also, Naples is still popular, but not quite as popular for backpackers and budget travelers.

Split is a very popular city to visit for backpackers. 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.

Naples is very popular with the backpacker crowd. It's more affordable than most of northern Italy, and it has plenty of hostels to choose from. The city makes a great stop for backpackers who want to see a different part of Italy. While not completely off the backpacker trail, Naples is not inundated with tourists the way some other Italian cities are.

Is Naples or Split Better for Students?

Split is well known for students. Also, Naples is still popular, but not quite as popular for its student-friendly activities.

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.

It's common for students to visit Naples. It's a large city with a lot to see and do. Students also appreciate the many day trips that are available in the area.

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

Naples 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 Naples can get you to some places easily. There's a metro with two metro lines as well as four suburban train lines. There are also funiculars, regional trains, and ferries to the surrounding areas.

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 Naples or Split a more walkable city?

Naples and Split both are great when exploring on foot.

Naples is a very walkable destination. The historic center is flat and easy to explore on foot.

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 Naples Worth Visiting? and Is Split Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Split or Naples?

How long in Naples or Split?

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

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

Each neighborhood in Naples has its own distinct appeal, so there are pleny of areas to explore. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. Lots of people come for the food. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Because of this, one day is usually enough time for a trip here.

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 Naples or Split?

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

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 Naples or Split?

Naples is a fun place to experience. Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the big city destination of Naples. Lots of people come for the food. Visiting the old town is also a must. 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 Naples or Split?

You'll find food and shopping around the fascinating big city of Naples. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. 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 active 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 One Week (7-Day) Tours in Italy, The Best 2-Week 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 Naples and Split, we can see that Naples 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 Naples would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Naples 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 Naples Expensive? and Is Split Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Naples or Split?

Naples has a larger population, and is about 6 times larger than the population of Split. When comparing the sizes of Naples 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 Naples or Split?

Both places have a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. As both cities are in the northern hemisphere, summer is in July and winter is in January.

Should I visit Naples or Split in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Naples as well as Split. Many travelers come to Naples for the city activities and 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, Naples is generally cooler than Split. Daily temperatures in Naples average around 23°C (74°F), and Split fluctuates around 26°C (80°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Split. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Naples this time of the year. In the summer, Naples often gets less sunshine than Split. Naples gets 313 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Split receives 345 hours of full sun.

Naples usually gets around the same amount of rain in July as Split. Naples gets 26 mm (1 in) of rain, while Split receives 28 mm (1.1 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Naples or Split in the Autumn?

Both Split and Naples are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Naples in the autumn for the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene. Also, most visitors come to Split for the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene during these months.

Naples is around the same temperature as Split in the autumn. The daily temperature in Naples averages around 17°C (63°F) in October, and Split fluctuates around 18°C (64°F).

It's quite sunny in Split. Naples usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Split during autumn. Naples gets 189 hours of sunny skies, while Split receives 200 hours of full sun in the autumn.

It's quite rainy in Naples. In October, Naples usually receives more rain than Split. Naples gets 132 mm (5.2 in) of rain, while Split receives 79 mm (3.1 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Naples or Split in the Winter?

Both Split and Naples during the winter are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Naples 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, Naples is around the same temperature as Split. Typically, the winter temperatures in Naples in January average around 8°C (47°F), and Split averages at about 8°C (47°F).

In the winter, Naples often gets less sunshine than Split. Naples gets 115 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Split receives 128 hours of full sun.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Naples. Naples usually gets more rain in January than Split. Naples gets 111 mm (4.4 in) of rain, while Split receives 83 mm (3.3 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Naples or Split in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Naples and Split. The spring months attract visitors to Naples because of the activities around the city. Furthermore, the beaches and the activities around the city are the main draw to Split this time of year.

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

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Split this time of the year. Naples usually receives less sunshine than Split during spring. Naples gets 189 hours of sunny skies, while Split receives 212 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Naples usually receives around the same amount of rain as Split. Naples gets 71 mm (2.8 in) of rain, while Split receives 66 mm (2.6 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Split and Naples