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

Should you visit Rome 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 Rome 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.

Rome

Rome is a archeological, bustling, and fun-filled city. With plenty of activities and things to do, it's a huge city that draws plenty of visitors. It's considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. Visitors also love the live music, food, and shopping.

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.

Rome and Split: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Rome or Split?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Rome than Split, as it is bigger with more sights, attractions, and activities for visitors. Rome is more popular for its museums, food, music, shopping, big city activities, and impressive beauty, while Split is known for its resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, and historical sights. Rome is popular for its iconic archaeological sites such as the Colosseum and the Roman Forum, as well as its gelato, Italian cuisine, and strong religious roots. It is also home to The Colosseum. Split is popular for its historical sights, high energy coastal setting, and waterfront promenades.

The Colosseum

How is Rome different from Split?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Rome 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 Rome are world-renowned. The historical sights around the city are among the most impressive in the world. Almost anywhere you look you'll find a notable landmark but some of the most famous include the Colosseum, the Pantheon, the Trevi Fountain, the Vatican, and the Roman Forum.

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 Rome or Split? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

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

Eat your way through Rome, as it has many local or world renowned restaurants to choose from. Homemade pasta, fresh sauces, and fine wine all make the food scene among the best. Also make sure you try the gelato.

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 Rome or Split Better for Nightlife?

It's hard to distinguish whether Rome or Split has a better nightlife scene.

The nightlife in Rome is well established with world renowned clubs and venues. You'll find a huge concentration of bars and clubs in the Testaccio area. There are late night clubs with salsa dancing, merengue, and live DJ's spinning every type of music.

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.

Is Rome or Split Better for Music?

Rome is terrific for its live music scene. However, Split is not a live music destination.

With so many music venues, you're guaranteed a show any night of the week in Rome. Popular music venues include Live Alcazar, Atlantico Live, and Beba do Samba.

Split is not a live music destination.

Is Rome or Split Better for Resorts?

Split is a great destination for its resorts. However, Rome 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.

Rome is not a resort destination.

Is Rome or Split Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Split is a great destination for snorkeling and scuba diving. However, Rome is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

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.

Rome is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Rome or Split Better for Beaches?

Split is a great destination for the beach. However, Rome is not a beach destination.

The beaches at Split attract visitors from all over. 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.

Rome is not a beach destination.

Is Rome or Split Better for its Old Town?

Split is a city with good options for its historic old town charm. However, Rome 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.

Rome does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Rome or Split?

Rome is terrific for its shopping opportunities. Also, Split is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its shopping areas.

Known for shopping, Rome draws large crowds to its stores. For the biggest brand names, head to Via del Corso, which is near the Spanish Steps. Popular items to buy include Italian ceramics, shoes, leather goods, and jewelry.

Browsing through shops is a popular activity 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.

Is Rome or Split Better for Families?

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

Rome is known to be a very family-friendly place to visit. What kid wouldn't be thrilled to be surrounded by pizza and spaghetti restaurants? In addition to kid-friendly food options, there are also a number of great activities that the whole family can enjoy including exploring the Colosseum, taking a gladiator class, and eating gelato.

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 Rome or Split Better for Couples?

Split is an unbeatable place for couples. Also, Rome is still popular, but not quite as popular 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.

Rome is a great city if you're traveling as a couple. With many beautiful buildings, world class restaurants, and world renowned sights, this city makes a great romantic destination.

Is Rome or Split Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Rome and Split are fantastic places to visit for backpackers and budget travelers.

Rome is a very popular city to visit for backpackers. Backpackers will find no shortage of hostels where they can stay, particularly near the main train station where accommodation is particularly cheap (but not always the best quality).

Many backpackers frequent Split. 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.

Is Rome or Split Better for Students?

Rome is terrific for its student-friendly activities. Also, Split is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for students.

Rome is a very popular place to visit for students. The city is a popular study abroad destination and you'll find plenty of international students here.

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.

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

Rome is terrific for times when you don't have a car. Also, Split is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its public transit.

The thorough and effecient public transit system of Rome can take you anywhere. There's a metro system, trams, and a comprehensive bus system that goes around the city.

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 Rome or Split a more walkable city?

Rome 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 Rome. You'll find many of the most popular sights in a compact area that's easily explored on foot. Do watch out for traffic, which can be a bit chaotic at times.

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 Rome Worth Visiting? and Is Split Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Split or Rome?

How long in Rome or Split?

It's fun to spend time in either Rome or Split. Generally, people tend to spend more time in Rome due to the larger number of activities and things to do. Usually, 3-7 days is a good amount of time for Rome, and 2-4 days is enough time in Split.

Families should spend more time in Split than Rome. 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 Rome. 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 Rome than Split 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 Rome.

One day in Rome or Split?

Each neighborhood in Rome has its own distinct appeal, so there are pleny of areas to explore. 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.

Visitors enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the destination of Split. People usually spend lots of time at the beach. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything.

A weekend in Rome or Split?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Rome. A weekend is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision.

Split is a fun place to experience. Most people visit for the nightlife. If you have a weekend, this is a great place to go. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. A weekend is often enough time to do most activities. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

Five days in Rome or Split?

Rome is a fun place to experience. Each neighborhood in Rome has its own distinct appeal, so there are pleny of areas to explore. This would be the perfect place to spend five days, as it has just the right amount of activities.

You'll find scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping around the historic destination of Split. This city offers something for everyone. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

A week in Rome or Split?

Each neighborhood in Rome has its own distinct appeal, so there are pleny of areas to explore. Plenty of people spend one week in the area when traveling. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One week is often enough time to do most activities.

The historic city of Split offers shopping and museums. You'll find plenty of activities on the beach. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. One week is usually plenty of time to spend here with extra days to spare. With this much time, visitors often visit nearby destinations or take day trips.

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 we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Rome and Split, we can see that Rome 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 Rome would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Rome 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 Rome Expensive? and Is Split Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Rome or Split?

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

The summer brings many poeple to Rome as well as Split. The city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Rome this time of year. Additionally, many travelers come to Split for the beaches, snorkeling, the city activities, and the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Rome is generally around the same temperature as Split. Daily temperatures in Rome average around 25°C (77°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 Rome this time of the year. In the summer, Rome often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Split. Rome gets 338 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Split receives 345 hours of full sun.

Rome usually gets less rain in July than Split. Rome gets 19 mm (0.7 in) of rain, while Split receives 28 mm (1.1 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Rome or Split in the Autumn?

Both Split and Rome are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Rome for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area. Also, many visitors come to Split in the autumn for the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene.

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

It's quite sunny in Split. Rome usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Split during autumn. Rome gets 198 hours of sunny skies, while Split receives 200 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Rome usually receives more rain than Split. Rome gets 94 mm (3.7 in) of rain, while Split receives 79 mm (3.1 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Rome or Split in the Winter?

Both Split and Rome during the winter are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Rome in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, most visitors come to Split for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months.

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

In the winter, Rome often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Split. Rome gets 127 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Split receives 128 hours of full sun.

Rome usually gets around the same amount of rain in January as Split. Rome gets 81 mm (3.2 in) of rain, while Split receives 83 mm (3.3 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Rome or Split in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Rome and Split. Most visitors come to Rome for 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, Rome is generally around the same temperature as Split. Daily temperatures in Rome average around 14°C (57°F), and Split fluctuates around 15°C (59°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Split this time of the year. In Rome, it's very sunny this time of the year. Rome usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Split during spring. Rome gets 204 hours of sunny skies, while Split receives 212 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Rome usually receives less rain than Split. Rome gets 50 mm (2 in) of rain, while Split receives 66 mm (2.6 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Split and Rome