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

Should you visit Pompeii or Split?

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

Which city is more affordable and which is best for your travel style? If you're trying to figure out where to go next, comparing the travel costs between Pompeii and Split can help you decide which place is right for you.

Pompeii

Pompeii is a famous, iconic, and one-of-a-kind archeological site. Visitors also love the museums.

Split

Split is a fun-filled, budget-friendly, and historic 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.

Pompeii and Split: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Pompeii or Split?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Split. Although Pompeii and Split are both popular with visitors, Split has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Split is more popular for its food, nightlife, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, historical sights, shopping, and big city activities, while Pompeii is known for its museums. Pompeii is popular for its well preserved archaeological ruins that are still intact following the eruption of Mount Vesuvius. Split is popular for its historical sights, high energy coastal setting, and waterfront promenades. It is also home to Diocletian's Palace.

How is Pompeii different from Split?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Pompeii is terrific for its museums and history. Also, Split is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its museums and landmarks.

The museums and tourist attractions in Pompeii are world-renowned. Pompeii is a city frozen in time and it is truly a one-of-a-kind destination. The streets remain as they once stood, lined with shops and homes. Highlights of a visit include the Forum, the Antiquarium, the Temple of Isis, and the Teatro Grande.

Split offers many unique museums, sights, and landmarks that will make for a memorable trip. 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 Pompeii or Split? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Split is an excellent place to visit for its restaurants. However, Pompeii is lacking in options for its restaurant scene.

Split has a number of nationally recognized food spots and restaurants. 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.

While Pompeii is not famous for its food, you'll find what you need there. While there is a café near the Forum, the quality of the food isn't great and it can get crowded. You'd do best to bring your own food as the site is large and you'll want to eat on your own schedule.

Is Pompeii or Split Better for Nightlife?

Split is renowned for its evening party scene. However, Pompeii is lacking in options for nightlife.

Split is a destination that you simply have to visit at least once for nightlife. 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.

Things get quiet in the evenings in Pompeii. As a popular tourist destination, you'll find some bars nearby, but most people visit as a day trip and head out of town before the evening hours.

Is Pompeii or Split Better for Resorts?

Split is an excellent place to visit for its luxury resorts. However, Pompeii is not a resort destination.

Vacationers can choose from a number of terrific resorts in Split. 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.

Pompeii is not a resort destination.

Is Pompeii or Split Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Split is an excellent place to visit for snorkeling and scuba diving. However, Pompeii is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

There is a nice variety of marine life that makes scuba diving and snorkeling great in 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.

Pompeii is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Pompeii or Split Better for Beaches?

Split is an excellent place to visit for the beach. However, Pompeii is not a beach destination.

Split is a very popular place to visit for its 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.

Pompeii is not a beach destination.

Is Pompeii or Split Better for its Old Town?

Split is very good for its historic old town charm. However, Pompeii does not have a historic old town.

Split has an old town worth visiting. 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.

Pompeii does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Pompeii or Split?

Split is an excellent place to visit for its shopping areas. However, Pompeii is lacking in options 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.

Pompeii has some shopping areas for those that seek them out. There are some souvenir stands outside of the site where you can buy trinkets to remember your visit.

Is Pompeii or Split Better for Families?

You'll find high quality kid-friendly activities in either Pompeii or Split.

You'll find plenty of family-friendly things to do in Pompeii. Its a city frozen in time, and even kids will get lost in the history and story behind Pompeii. The trick is to find a kid-friendly tour and understand the layout before you arrive. Because it's so big, you want to know which places to visit and which you might want to skip with kids who have short attention spans.

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 Pompeii or Split Better for Couples?

Split is renowned for couples. Also, Pompeii is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for romance.

For those traveling as a couple, Split 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.

Pompeii is a nice destination for couples. It's an iconic destination in Italy, and should be added to any Italian trip itinerary. It's not exactly a romantic destination, but it's something that every visitor should see.

Is Pompeii or Split Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Split is renowned for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Pompeii 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.

It's common for backpackers to visit Pompeii. It's touristy and crowded, but also world renowned and not-to-be-missed. Whether you're a backpacker or a luxury traveler, Pompeii is on most itineraries.

Is Pompeii or Split Better for Students?

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

Split is very popular with students. 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.

Pompeii is popular with students. It's history and educational significance make it a great study abroad destination, whether you visit alone, with friends, or as part of a tour group.

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

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

Pompeii has some public transit options. Many visitors from Sorrento and Naples arrive via the the Circumvesuviana train. There are also buses from many different locations.

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 Pompeii or Split a more walkable city?

Pompeii 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 Pompeii. You can walk around the entire site in about 4 hours, but you'll really want to allow a full day if you want to see everything in depth.

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 Pompeii Worth Visiting? and Is Split Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Split or Pompeii?

How long in Pompeii or Split?

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

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

In Pompeii, many people enjoy the museums that this famous destination offers. Lots of people come for the museums. This archeological site 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 Pompeii or Split?

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

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 Pompeii or Split?

Pompeii is a fun place to experience. Travelers enjoy the museums when visiting the destination of Pompeii. Lots of people come for the museums. 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 Pompeii or Split?

You'll find museums around the iconic destination of Pompeii. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. Lots of people come for the museums. 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 Romantic Tours for Couples in Italy, The Best Walking 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 Pompeii and Split, we can see that Pompeii 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 Pompeii would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Pompeii 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 Pompeii Expensive? and Is Split Expensive?.

When is the best time to visit Pompeii 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 Pompeii or Split in the Summer?

Both Split and Pompeii are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Pompeii in the summer for the family-friendly experiences. Also, most visitors come to Split for the beaches, snorkeling, the city activities, and the family-friendly experiences during these months.

In July, Pompeii is generally cooler than Split. Daily temperatures in Pompeii average around 23°C (74°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 Pompeii. Pompeii usually receives less sunshine than Split during summer. Pompeii gets 313 hours of sunny skies, while Split receives 345 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Pompeii usually receives around the same amount of rain as Split. Pompeii gets 26 mm (1 in) of rain, while Split receives 28 mm (1.1 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Pompeii or Split in the Autumn?

Both Split and Pompeii during the autumn are popular places to visit. Also, the autumn months attract visitors to Split because of the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene.

Pompeii is around the same temperature as Split in the autumn. The daily temperature in Pompeii averages around 17°C (63°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, Pompeii often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Split. Pompeii gets 189 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 Pompeii. Pompeii usually gets more rain in October than Split. Pompeii gets 132 mm (5.2 in) of rain, while Split receives 79 mm (3.1 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Pompeii or Split in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Pompeii and Split. The winter months attract visitors to Pompeii because of the museums. Also, the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Split this time of year.

In the winter, Pompeii is around the same temperature as Split. Typically, the winter temperatures in Pompeii in January average around 8°C (47°F), and Split averages at about 8°C (47°F).

Pompeii usually receives less sunshine than Split during winter. Pompeii gets 115 hours of sunny skies, while Split receives 128 hours of full sun in the winter.

Pompeii gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In January, Pompeii usually receives more rain than Split. Pompeii gets 111 mm (4.4 in) of rain, while Split receives 83 mm (3.3 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Pompeii or Split in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Pompeii as well as Split. Also, many travelers come to Split for the beaches and the activities around the city.

In April, Pompeii is generally cooler than Split. Daily temperatures in Pompeii average around 13°C (55°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, Pompeii often gets less sunshine than Split. Pompeii gets 189 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Split receives 212 hours of full sun.

Pompeii usually gets around the same amount of rain in April as Split. Pompeii gets 71 mm (2.8 in) of rain, while Split receives 66 mm (2.6 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Split and Pompeii