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

Should you visit San Remo or Split?

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

Should I visit San Remo or Split? This is a common question asked by many travelers. By figuring out which city has activities that align with your interests along with knowing which is more affordable, you'll understand where you can get more bang for your buck. So, let's dive into the details and the data, which all comes from actual travelers.

San Remo

San Remo is a historic, relaxing, and beautiful coastal city. The beauty of this spot is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. Visitors also love the food, beaches, and shopping.

Split

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

San Remo and Split: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in San Remo or Split?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Split than San Remo, as it is bigger with more sights, attractions, and activities for visitors. Split is more popular for its museums, nightlife, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, shopping, and big city activities, while San Remo is known for its historical sights and impressive beauty. Split is more touristy than San Remo and is known for its historical sights, high energy coastal setting, and waterfront promenades. It is also home to Diocletian's Palace. San Remo is popular for its olives, lemons, and flower market.

How is San Remo different from Split?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in San Remo or Split?

Split is a very popular place for its museums and history. However, San Remo does not have museums and landmarks.

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.

San Remo does not have museums and landmarks.

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

Local dishes at restaurants are fun to try in both San Remo and Split.

San Remo has a number of nationally recognized food spots and restaurants. The local restaurants are charming and sell a number of local specialties. Many traditional dishes are made with rabbit or chicken. There are also vegetable pies and sardenaira, which is a type of pizza that's made with tomatoes, garlic, and anchovies. Also make sure you pick up Baci di Sanremo, which are soft chocolate biscuits that are available in local bakeries.

With its innovative style combined with traditional elements, Split makes for a great culinary experience. 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 San Remo or Split Better for Nightlife?

Split is terrific for its evening party scene. Also, San Remo is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for nightlife.

Split is a must-see 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.

San Remo has an active nightlife scene for those who seek it out. The city has a number of clubs and bars where you can enjoy a drink or hang out late into the evening. It's a pretty mellow nightlife scene, but there's still plenty of places to go as well as a local vibe that doesn't have the influx of tourists that you find in many of other Italian cities.

Is San Remo or Split Better for Resorts?

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

Split is known as a popular and fun resort destination. 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.

San Remo is not a resort destination.

Is San Remo or Split Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

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

Many visitors partake in scuba diving or snorkeing while visiting 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.

San Remo is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is San Remo or Split Better for Beaches?

For a relaxing beach holiday, both San Remo and Split are superb choices.

San Remo is considered a top beach destination. The beautiful sandy beaches are nice to visit and it's possible to rent chairs and umbrellas in many places. The main beach in town is Spiaggia dei Porti. Other popular nearby beaches include Spiaggia dei tre ponti, which is a large public beach, and Cala degli Orsi, which is one of the most beautiful public beaches in the area.

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.

Is San Remo or Split Better for its Old Town?

San Remo 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 San Remo. The old quarter of Pigna is a Medieval area with narrow streets that feel as if they're frozen in time. The hills offer impressive city views and the area has a unique historic character.

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 San Remo or Split?

Split is a very popular place for its shopping areas. Also, San Remo is not quite as popular, but is fairly good 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.

San Remo is a great destination for shopping. There are local and international brands as well as a shopping mall and outlets where you can enjoy shopping.

Is San Remo or Split Better for Families?

Kids will enjoy a visit to either San Remo or Split.

You'll find plenty of family-friendly things to do in San Remo. The area offers plenty of outdoor activities that the whole family will enjoy. There's horseback riding, hiking, rowing, snorkeling, cooking classes, farm tours and more. There are also a number of hotels in the area that have kid-friendly activities.

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 San Remo or Split Better for Couples?

Split is terrific for couples. Also, San Remo is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for romance.

Split makes for a terrific place to visit as a couple. 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 San Remo frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. It's known as the city of flowers, and the many beautiful gardens make this a truly romantic place to visit. Couples will enjoy soaking up the city's history and enjoy the vibrant culture and outdoor activities that are available.

Is San Remo or Split Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Split is terrific for backpackers and budget travelers. However, San Remo 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.

San Remo is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. There aren't many hostels in town, and most backpackers head to more popular Italian destinations. If you're looking for a more off-the-beaten path destination, then this may be your style.

Is San Remo or Split Better for Students?

Split is a very popular place for its student-friendly activities. However, San Remo is not popular with students.

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.

San Remo is not popular with students.

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

Visitors will find good public transit in both San Remo and Split.

San Remo has some public transit options. There are local buses around town.

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 San Remo or Split a more walkable city?

San Remo and Split are superb when it comes to walkability.

San Remo is a very walkable destination. The old quarter is fun to explore on foot and there are a number of walking tours through town.

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 San Remo Worth Visiting? and Is Split Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Split or San Remo?

How long in San Remo or Split?

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

Families should spend more time in Split than San Remo. 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 San Remo. 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 San Remo 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 San Remo or Split?

In San Remo, many people enjoy the nightlife and food that this beautiful destination offers. It's also a great beach destination, too. This coastal city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Because of this, one day is usually enough time for a trip here.

The city of Split offers museums and nightlife. Most people come for the beaches. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

A weekend in San Remo or Split?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in San Remo. 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 popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have a weekend, this city makes for a great vacation. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Split, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Five days in San Remo or Split?

San Remo is a fun place to experience. Travelers enjoy the shopping and nightlife when visiting the destination of San Remo. 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 popular choice for travelers. It's no surprise that nightlife is why people visit. Five days 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. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

A week in San Remo or Split?

You'll find nightlife and food around the scenic destination of San Remo. 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.

Split is a great place to explore. It's no surprise that nightlife is why people visit. It's also a great beach destination, too. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. This city offers something for everyone.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Sightseeing Tours in Italy, The Best Vineyard & Wine 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 San Remo and Split, we can see that San Remo 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 San Remo would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in San Remo 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 San Remo Expensive? and Is Split Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, San Remo or Split?

Split has a larger population, and is about 3 times larger than the population of San Remo. When comparing the sizes of San Remo 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 San Remo 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 San Remo or Split in the Summer?

Both Split and San Remo are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to San Remo for the beaches and the family-friendly experiences during these months. Also, the summer months attract visitors to Split because of the beaches, snorkeling, the city activities, and the family-friendly experiences.

In July, San Remo is generally cooler than Split. Daily temperatures in San Remo average around 23°C (73°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 San Remo. San Remo usually receives less sunshine than Split during summer. San Remo gets 295 hours of sunny skies, while Split receives 345 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, San Remo usually receives less rain than Split. San Remo gets 16 mm (0.6 in) of rain, while Split receives 28 mm (1.1 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit San Remo or Split in the Autumn?

Both Split and San Remo during the autumn are popular places to visit. The autumn months attract visitors to San Remo because of the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area. Furthermore, the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene are the main draw to Split this time of year.

San Remo is around the same temperature as Split in the autumn. The daily temperature in San Remo 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, San Remo often gets less sunshine than Split. San Remo gets 183 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 San Remo. San Remo usually gets more rain in October than Split. San Remo gets 108 mm (4.3 in) of rain, while Split receives 79 mm (3.1 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit San Remo or Split in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both San Remo and Split. The shopping scene and the cuisine are the main draw to San Remo this time of year. Furthermore, many travelers come to Split for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

In the winter, San Remo is around the same temperature as Split. Typically, the winter temperatures in San Remo in January average around 9°C (48°F), and Split averages at about 8°C (47°F).

San Remo usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Split during winter. San Remo gets 127 hours of sunny skies, while Split receives 128 hours of full sun in the winter.

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

Should I visit San Remo or Split in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to San Remo as well as Split. Many travelers come to San Remo for the beaches and the natural beauty. Additionally, many visitors come to Split in the spring for the beaches and the activities around the city.

In April, San Remo is generally cooler than Split. Daily temperatures in San Remo average around 13°C (56°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, San Remo often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Split. San Remo gets 198 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Split receives 212 hours of full sun.

San Remo usually gets around the same amount of rain in April as Split. San Remo gets 62 mm (2.4 in) of rain, while Split receives 66 mm (2.6 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Split and San Remo