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

Should you visit San Sebastian or Split?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between San Sebastian 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.

San Sebastian

San Sebastian is a beautiful, splendid, and outdoorsy city. Visitors also love the food, beaches, and shopping.

Split

Split is a budget-friendly, historic, and active city. It's a large city, so you'll find plenty of things to do around town. And you can't forget about the shopping, museums, and nightlife.

San Sebastian and Split: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in San Sebastian or Split?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Split than San Sebastian, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Split is better known for its museums, nightlife, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, historical sights, and big city activities, while San Sebastian is more popular for its food. Split is more touristy than San Sebastian and is popular for its historical sights, high energy coastal setting, and waterfront promenades. Also, Split is famous for Diocletian's Palace. San Sebastian is well known for its many Michelin-starred restaurants, its world class beaches, and its beautiful buildings.

How is San Sebastian different from Split?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Split is notable for its sights and museums. Also, San Sebastian is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its museums and history.

With a variety of museums, monuments, and historical sights, a trip to Split can be an interesting and educational experience. 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.

If you're looking for an educational opportunity, there are a decent number of museums and historical sights around San Sebastian. Head to Castillo de la Mota for nice views and walks. Museo San Telmo offers an overview of Basque culture and Palacio de Miramar is another interesting place to visit.

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

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

Eat your way through San Sebastian, as it has many local or world renowned restaurants to choose from. It is a famed culinary capital of not just Spain, but the entire world. The city has many Michelin-starred restaurants where you can experience modern or traditional recipes prepared by world class chefs. There are also pintxo bars, food markets, and gourmet food shops, that sell local ingredients and dishes. Much of the cuisine includes seafood, but you'll also find a local twist on traditional tapas. Dining is a true experience in this town.

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 San Sebastian or Split Better for Nightlife?

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

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.

San Sebastian has a lively atmosphere and nightlife is popular here. You can expect a lively nightlife scene around town with many bars and places to hang out. Some of the best nightlife is found in and around Parte Vieja, Centro, Reyes Católicos and Gros.

Is San Sebastian or Split Better for Resorts?

Split is notable for its resorts. Also, San Sebastian is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its luxury resorts.

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.

San Sebastian has a few great resort options. It's both a city and a resort vacation destination with many beachside resorts that are popular during the summer months.

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

Split is notable for its diving and snorkeling. However, San Sebastian 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.

San Sebastian is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is San Sebastian or Split Better for Beaches?

Both San Sebastian and Split have great beaches worth visiting.

You'll have a great beach vacation in San Sebastian. The city has three urban beaches that are a huge attraction during the summer months. For surfing and a lively atmosphere, head to the Playa de la Zurriola. The playa de la Concha is the most photographed and famous beach in town and Ondarreta is another beautiful option.

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.

Is San Sebastian or Split Better for its Old Town?

Split is a nice place to visit for its old town. However, San Sebastian does not have a historic old town.

Many people head to Split to see the old town. 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.

San Sebastian does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in San Sebastian or Split?

Both San Sebastian and Split are great shopping destinations.

San Sebastian is a popular shopping destination with plenty of stores. A mix of familiar brands and locally made items make shopping a fun activity. You'll also find many artisan food shops around town where you can take home some local wine or other culinary treats.

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.

Is San Sebastian or Split Better for Families?

San Sebastian and Split are both great destinations for the whole family.

San Sebastian is a very kid-friendly city. This city is surprisingly family-friendly. Not only is there the beach, but there are playgrounds everywhere. There's also the fun Monte Igueldo San Sebastian Amusement Park and the San Sebastian Aquarium. You could also take a boat ride or explore the many parks and gardens around town. And, of course, there are the many ice cream shops to check out.

You'll find plenty of family-friendly things to do in Split. 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 Sebastian or Split Better for Couples?

Split is very popular for its romantic activities. Also, San Sebastian is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for couples.

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.

San Sebastian makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. With its nice beaches, stunning view points, and world class restaurants, this city makes an excellent couple's destination. There are Michelin star restaurants to dine in and many parks and gardens where you can take a stroll as well.

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

Split is very popular for backpackers. Also, San Sebastian is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for backpackers and budget travelers.

Backpackers and budget travelers come from all over the world to visit 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.

Plenty of budget travelers and backpackers visit San Sebastian. There are a number of hostels around town, and you'll find enough other backpackers looking to meet up so you'll never be lonely.

Is San Sebastian or Split Better for Students?

San Sebastian and Split are both great destinations for students and younger travelers.

San Sebastian is a great city to visit as a student. There are good educational programs in town, as well as nice beaches and a good student population. The locals are also welcoming and friendly.

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.

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

Both San Sebastian and Split offer notable public transit options.

San Sebastian has a few public transit options. There's a comprehensive bus system around town that's operated by Dbus.

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

Is San Sebastian or Split a more walkable city?

San Sebastian and Split both are great when exploring on foot.

San Sebastian is a very walkable city. It's a great city for walking, with many pedestrian areas and places where you can take a stroll along the river or seaside.

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

Should I spend more time in Split or San Sebastian?

How long in San Sebastian or Split?

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

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

In San Sebastian, many people enjoy the shopping and museums that this beautiful destination offers. It's also a great beach destination, too. Lots of people come for the food. 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.

Many travelers enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting the active destination of Split. It's also a relaxing resort destination. Don't miss the nightlife, as that's what most people do. Your budget might influence how long you stay. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it.

A weekend in San Sebastian or Split?

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

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Split. Most people come for the beaches. Don't miss the nightlife, as that's what most people do. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do. For many, it makes a great getaway for a weekend. A weekend is usually enough time to experience most activities.

Five days in San Sebastian or Split?

San Sebastian is a fun place to experience. Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the destination of San Sebastian. Lots of people come for the food. You'll find plenty of activities on the beach. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything.

Travelers enjoy the food and scuba diving and snorkeling when visiting the budget-friendly destination of Split. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. 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.

A week in San Sebastian or Split?

You'll find food and shopping around the fun-filled destination of San Sebastian. Most people come for the beaches. 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.

You'll find scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping around the city of Split. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Sightseeing Tours in Spain, The Best Romantic Tours for Couples in Spain, The Best Walking Tours in Croatia, and The Best Luxury Tours to Croatia.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between San Sebastian and Split, we can see that Split is more expensive. And not only is San Sebastian much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to San Sebastian would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in San Sebastian 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 Split would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Split than you might in San Sebastian.

If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is San Sebastian Expensive? and Is Split Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, San Sebastian or Split?

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

Both Split and San Sebastian during the summer are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to San Sebastian for the beaches 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.

San Sebastian is cooler than Split in the summer. The daily temperature in San Sebastian averages around 20°C (68°F) in July, and Split fluctuates around 26°C (80°F).

In Split, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in San Sebastian. In the summer, San Sebastian often gets less sunshine than Split. San Sebastian gets 209 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Split receives 345 hours of full sun.

San Sebastian usually gets more rain in July than Split. San Sebastian gets 81 mm (3.2 in) of rain, while Split receives 28 mm (1.1 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit San Sebastian or Split in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both San Sebastian and Split. Many visitors come to San Sebastian in the autumn for the shopping scene. Also, most visitors come to Split for the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene during these months.

In the autumn, San Sebastian is cooler than Split. Typically, the autumn temperatures in San Sebastian in October average around 16°C (60°F), and Split averages at about 18°C (64°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Split this time of the year. San Sebastian usually receives less sunshine than Split during autumn. San Sebastian gets 144 hours of sunny skies, while Split receives 200 hours of full sun in the autumn.

San Sebastian gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In October, San Sebastian usually receives more rain than Split. San Sebastian gets 155 mm (6.1 in) of rain, while Split receives 79 mm (3.1 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit San Sebastian or Split in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to San Sebastian as well as Split. Most visitors come to San Sebastian for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months. Also, the winter months attract visitors to Split because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

In January, San Sebastian is generally around the same temperature as Split. Daily temperatures in San Sebastian average around 8°C (47°F), and Split fluctuates around 8°C (47°F).

In the winter, San Sebastian often gets less sunshine than Split. San Sebastian gets 85 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Split receives 128 hours of full sun.

San Sebastian receives a lot of rain in the winter. San Sebastian usually gets more rain in January than Split. San Sebastian gets 183 mm (7.2 in) of rain, while Split receives 83 mm (3.3 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit San Sebastian or Split in the Spring?

Both Split and San Sebastian are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. The spring months attract visitors to San Sebastian because of the beaches. Also, the beaches and the activities around the city are the main draw to Split this time of year.

San Sebastian is cooler than Split in the spring. The daily temperature in San Sebastian averages around 12°C (54°F) in April, and Split fluctuates around 15°C (59°F).

It's quite sunny in Split. San Sebastian usually receives less sunshine than Split during spring. San Sebastian gets 141 hours of sunny skies, while Split receives 212 hours of full sun in the spring.

It's quite rainy in San Sebastian. In April, San Sebastian usually receives more rain than Split. San Sebastian gets 163 mm (6.4 in) of rain, while Split receives 66 mm (2.6 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Split and San Sebastian