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

Should you visit Palermo 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 Palermo 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.

Palermo

Palermo is a diverse, dynamic, and fun city. It's a large city, so you'll find plenty of things to do around town. Palermo is a beautiful place to visit, too. Visitors also love the food, scuba diving and snorkeling, and beaches. See Palermo travel costs.

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. Other popular activities here include scuba diving and snorkeling, beaches, and shopping. See Split travel costs.

Palermo and Split: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Palermo or Split?

Travelers will generally find more things to do in Split than Palermo. While Palermo is larger than Split, Split has more sights and attractions for tourists. Split is more popular for its museums and attractions, nightlife, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, and historical sights, while Palermo is known for its impressive beauty. Split is more touristy than Palermo and is popular for its historical sights, high energy coastal setting, and waterfront promenades. It is also home to Diocletian's Palace. Palermo is popular for its mild climate, beautiful architecture, fun atmosphere, and fascinating culture.

How is Palermo different from Split?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Split is a well-known place for its sights and museums. Also, Palermo is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its museums and history.

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.

Palermo is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. There are a number of grand buildings and impressive architectural buildings that you should visit. The cathedral, the Norman Palace, and Cappella Palatina are among the best.

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

Both Palermo and Split offer very good local cuisine and restaurants.

Dining out in Palermo is an experience not to be missed. The islands long history and occupation by a range of different groups means that the cuisine is heavily influenced by many different cultures. You'll see influences from Phonecians, Greeks, Arabs and Normans. Local dishes include Pasta alla Norma (pasta and vegetables), Arancine (rice balls), and Cannoli.

The food selection at local restaurants is excellent in 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 Palermo or Split Better for Nightlife?

Split is very popular for its evening party scene. Also, Palermo is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for nightlife.

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.

Palermo has a large number of nightlife venues. The nightlife scene is surprisingly varied with everything from wine bars by the ocean to dance parties that flood into the street. Some of the most popular areas for nightlife include the old town, Politeama, and Mondello.

Is Palermo or Split Better for Resorts?

Split is a well-known place for its resorts. However, Palermo 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.

Palermo is not a resort destination.

Is Palermo or Split Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Split is a well-known place for snorkeling and scuba diving. Also, Palermo is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for the nearby scuba diving and snorkeling.

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.

Grab a mask and fins and explore the underwater scenery in Palermo. The dive season lasts most of the year and there are many beautiful dive spots that are accessible from the city. The water is clear and there is a variety of flora and fauna to see.

Is Palermo or Split Better for Beaches?

Both Palermo and Split are considered to be very good beach destinations.

The beaches at Palermo attract visitors from all over. The city has a number of beautiful beaches, some of which are accessible by public transit. Mondello is a popular option with beautiful views. Capo Gallo is a relaxing option on a nature reserve that is good for divers and nature lovers. Addaura is a lively beach with a number of clubs.

Many people visit Split for it's beautiful beaches. 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.

Is Palermo or Split Better for its Old Town?

Split is a city with good options for its historic old town charm. However, Palermo does not have a historic old town.

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.

Palermo does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Palermo or Split?

Both Palermo and Split are very good shopping destinations.

Browsing through shops is a popular activity in Palermo. The city offers a mix of high end shopping streets as well as colorful markets that have the feel of a traditional bazaar. Whether you're looking for European brands or local merchandise, this city has an eclectic mix with something for everyone.

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 Palermo or Split More Beautiful?

Palermo is a good destination for its scenery and beauty. However, Split is not a destination known for its beauty.

Palermo is a beautiful place to visit, too. The city has beautiful beaches as well as nice architecture.

Split is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Palermo or Split Better for Families?

Both Palermo and Split are very good to visit with kids.

Palermo is known to be a very family-friendly place to visit. The city has beaches where everyone can cool off and play in the relaxing waves. There's also a botanical garden and the fascinating Catacombs of the Capuchins. Kids will also enjoy exploring the many diverse markets throughout the city.

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.

Is Palermo or Split Better for Couples?

Split is very popular for couples. Also, Palermo is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit 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.

Palermo is a nice destination for couples. The city is filled with fun adventures, unique markets, and relaxing beaches. It makes a great city escape for couples who enjoy spending time outdoors but also having access to an urban setting.

Is Palermo or Split Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Split is very popular for backpackers. Also, Palermo is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit 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.

Plenty of backpackers visit Palermo. There are a decent number of affordable hostels around town as well as plenty of backpackers that keep the scene fun and social.

Is Palermo or Split Better for Students?

Split is a well-known place for students. Also, Palermo is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its student-friendly activities.

Students come from all over to stay in 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.

Plenty of students visit Palermo. It's an affordable student destination with a relaxing and laid back vibe. There's enough activity to keep it interesting without a high pressure setting.

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

Split is a city with good options for its public transit. However, Palermo is not a good city for times when you don't have a car.

Split has a few public transit options. There are bus services that will help you get around town.

Public transit is mostly limited in Palermo. If you stick to the main city center then you can get around by city bus, but if you're headed anywhere else, you'll likely want to take a taxi or Uber.

Is Palermo or Split a more walkable city?

Palermo and Split both are very good when exploring on foot.

Palermo is a very walkable destination. The city is walkable with a number of streets closed to cars and pedestrian only.

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 Palermo Worth Visiting? and Is Split Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Split or Palermo?

How long in Palermo or Split?

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

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

In Palermo, many people enjoy the food and scuba diving and snorkeling that this dynamic destination offers. It's also a great beach destination, too. 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, 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 Palermo or Split?

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

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 Palermo or Split?

Palermo is a fun place to experience. Travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the destination of Palermo. You'll find plenty of activities on the beach. 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 Palermo or Split?

You'll find museums and nightlife around the dynamic destination of Palermo. Most people come for the beaches. 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 Italy, The Best Budget Tours to Italy, The Best Walking Tours in Croatia, and The Best Luxury Tours to Croatia.

When comparing the travel costs between Palermo 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 Palermo Expensive? and Is Split Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Palermo or Split?

Palermo has a larger population, and is about 4 times larger than the population of Split. When comparing the sizes of Palermo 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 Palermo 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 Palermo or Split in the Summer?

Both Split and Palermo during the summer are popular places to visit. The beaches, snorkeling, the city activities, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Palermo this time of year. Furthermore, many travelers come to Split for the beaches, snorkeling, the city activities, and the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Palermo is generally around the same temperature as Split. Daily temperatures in Palermo average around 25°C (76°F), and Split fluctuates around 26°C (80°F).

In Split, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Palermo. In the summer, Palermo often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Split. Palermo gets 347 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Split receives 345 hours of full sun.

Palermo usually gets less rain in July than Split. Palermo gets 2 mm (0.1 in) of rain, while Split receives 28 mm (1.1 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Palermo or Split in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Palermo and Split. Many travelers come to Palermo for the city's sights and attractions, 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.

Palermo is around the same temperature as Split in the autumn. The daily temperature in Palermo averages around 20°C (67°F) in October, and Split fluctuates around 18°C (64°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Split this time of the year. In Palermo, it's very sunny this time of the year. Palermo usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Split during autumn. Palermo gets 204 hours of sunny skies, while Split receives 200 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Palermo usually receives less rain than Split. Palermo gets 61 mm (2.4 in) of rain, while Split receives 79 mm (3.1 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Palermo or Split in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Palermo as well as Split. Many visitors come to Palermo in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Additionally, most visitors come to Split for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months.

In the winter, Palermo is a little warmer than Split. Typically, the winter temperatures in Palermo in January average around 12°C (53°F), and Split averages at about 8°C (47°F).

In the winter, Palermo often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Split. Palermo gets 133 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Split receives 128 hours of full sun.

Palermo usually gets less rain in January than Split. Palermo gets 56 mm (2.2 in) of rain, while Split receives 83 mm (3.3 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Palermo or Split in the Spring?

Both Split and Palermo are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Palermo for the beaches, the activities around the city, and the natural beauty during these months. Also, the spring months attract visitors to Split because of the beaches and the activities around the city.

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

It's quite sunny in Split. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Palermo. Palermo usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Split during spring. Palermo gets 219 hours of sunny skies, while Split receives 212 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Palermo usually receives less rain than Split. Palermo gets 37 mm (1.5 in) of rain, while Split receives 66 mm (2.6 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Split and Palermo