A Travel Price Comparison for Croatia Split vs. Korcula for Nightlife, Couples, Backpackers, and Attractions

Should you visit Split or Korcula?

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

Which city should you visit? Read on to compare the activities as well as the prices of travel for Split and Korcula. We'll break down costs for accommodation, food, transportation and more to help you learn more about these two destinations. Then, you can figure out if either of these two places are accessible based on your travel budget, schedule, and interests. So, let's dig into it.

Split

Split is a historic, active, and touristy 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.

Korcula

Korcula is a scenic, laid back, and historic island. The beauty of this spot is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. Visitors also love the scuba diving and snorkeling, beaches, and hiking.

Split and Korcula: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Split or Korcula?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Split than Korcula, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Split is better known for its museums, nightlife, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, shopping, and big city activities, while Korcula is more popular for its historical sights, hiking, and impressive beauty. Split is more touristy than Korcula and is popular for its historical sights, high energy coastal setting, and waterfront promenades. Also, Split is famous for Diocletian's Palace. Korcula is well known for its small old town and its beautiful natural setting.

How is Split different from Korcula?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Split is a great destination for its museums and landmarks. Also, Korcula is still popular, but not quite as popular for its historical sights.

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.

If you're looking for an educational opportunity, there are a decent number of museums and historical sights around Korcula. Most of the sights are concentrated in Korcula Town, which has a charming old town that is filled with stone houses. In the center of the old town is St Mark's Cathedral. Other points of interest include Abbey Treasury and Marco Polo's House.

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

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

Split has a huge number of terrific 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.

Dining out in Korcula is an experience not to be missed. Food is a way of life on the island, and you'll likely enjoy bread, salad, soup, and grilled meat or seafood at most meals. The ingredients are locally produced and fresh.

Is Split or Korcula Better for Nightlife?

Split is renowned for nightlife and partying. However, Korcula is a island with minimal options for its evening party scene.

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.

Korcula doesn't have the most active nightlife scene. The party scene is lacking in the old town, so this isn't the place to visit for nightlife. Many of the restaurants become cocktail bars at night, and there is a club or two that has opened in recent years.

Is Split or Korcula Better for Resorts?

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

Korcula is not a resort destination.

Is Split or Korcula Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Split is a great destination for its diving and snorkeling. Also, Korcula is still popular, but not quite as popular for snorkeling and scuba diving.

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 Korcula. There are a few snorkeling tours that leave from the island.

Is Split or Korcula Better for Beaches?

Split and Korcula both offer very good beaches.

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.

Korcula is considered a top beach destination. There are a number of beautiful beaches around the island. Head south for the sandier beaches and north for the pebbly, shallower beaches. Many people think that Lumbarda has the best beaches on the island.

Is Split or Korcula Better for its Old Town?

Korcula 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 Korcula. The charming old town is filled with interesting buildings and historic streets that you can explore.

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 Split or Korcula Better for Hiking?

Korcula is an excellent place to visit for its hiking trails. However, Split is not a hiking destination.

Many visitors explore the nearby hiking trails while visiting Korcula. There are many natural and hiking areas on the island so you can enjoy a full day hike or a shorter stroll through the area.

Split is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Split or Korcula?

Split is a great destination for its shopping opportunities. Also, Korcula is still popular, but not quite as popular for its shopping areas.

Split is a popular shopping destination with plenty of stores. 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.

Korcula has a variety of shopping areas worth visiting. You'll find boutiques, small retail shops, or stores selling knick knacks around town.

Is Split or Korcula Better for Families?

Both Split and Korcula are very good family-friendly destinations.

Because of its large number of kid-friendly activities, Split is very family-friendly. 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.

Korcula is known to be a very family-friendly place to visit. The island has many great hikes that are appropriate for all ages. There are also pebbly beaches where the kids can play in the water and explore.

Is Split or Korcula Better for Couples?

Split is renowned for its romantic activities. Also, Korcula is still popular, but not quite as popular for couples.

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.

Korcula is a great city if you're traveling as a couple. The beautiful old town, striking coastline, and wonderful natural beauty make for a great honeymoon or romantic escape. There are many nice hikes in the area and the beaches are nice for cooling off.

Is Split or Korcula Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Split is renowned for backpackers. Also, Korcula is still popular, but not quite as popular 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 backpackers visit Korcula. You'll find enough hostels around the island to choose from and there are usually plenty of backpackers hanging out.

Is Split or Korcula Better for Students?

Split is a great destination for students. Also, Korcula is still popular, but not quite as popular 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.

It's common for students to visit Korcula. More students have been moving to the island, and you'll find a growing student population.

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

Visitors will find notable public transit in both Split and Korcula.

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

You'll find some public transit in Korcula, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. There are buses around the island but not all routes are very frequent.

Is Split or Korcula a more walkable city?

Split is a great destination for its high level of walkability. Also, Korcula is still popular, but not quite as popular for its ease of walking around.

Split is a very walkable city. 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.

Korcula is a somewhat walkable city. There are foot paths and trails all over the island but you'll want to rent a bike if you're going long distances.

For even more information, also check out Is Split Worth Visiting? and Is Korcula Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Korcula or Split?

How long in Split or Korcula?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Split and Korcula. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Split than in Korcula. Usually, 2-4 days is a good amount of time for Split, and 2-3 days is enough time in Korcula.

Families should spend more time in Split than Korcula. 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 Korcula. You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in Split that are great for a weekend getaway or a longer couple's trip.

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Split than Korcula 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 Split or Korcula?

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.

In Korcula, many people enjoy the shopping and museums that this historic destination offers. It's also a great beach destination, too. This island 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.

A weekend in Split or Korcula?

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.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Korcula. For many, it makes a great getaway for a weekend. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking 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.

Five days in Split or Korcula?

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.

Korcula is a fun place to experience. Travelers enjoy the food and scuba diving and snorkeling when visiting the destination of Korcula. You'll find plenty of activities on the beach. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything.

A week in Split or Korcula?

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.

You'll find scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping around the laid back destination of Korcula. 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.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Walking Tours in Croatia, The Best Luxury Tours to Croatia, The Best Budget Tours to Croatia, and The Best Tours for Seniors to Croatia.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Split and Korcula, we can see that Split is more expensive. And not only is Korcula much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Korcula would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Korcula 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 Korcula.

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

Which is Bigger, Split or Korcula?

Split has a larger population, and is about 60 times larger than the population of Korcula. When comparing the sizes of Split and Korcula, 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 Split or Korcula?

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 Split or Korcula in the Summer?

Both Korcula and Split during the summer are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Split for the beaches, snorkeling, the city activities, and the family-friendly experiences during these months. Also, the summer months attract visitors to Korcula because of the beaches, snorkeling, the hiking, and the family-friendly experiences.

Split is around the same temperature as Korcula in the summer. The daily temperature in Split averages around 26°C (80°F) in July, and Korcula fluctuates around 26°C (80°F).

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

Split usually gets around the same amount of rain in July as Korcula. Split gets 28 mm (1.1 in) of rain, while Korcula receives 28 mm (1.1 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Split or Korcula in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Split and Korcula. The autumn months attract visitors to Split because of the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene. Also, the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Korcula this time of year.

In the autumn, Split is around the same temperature as Korcula. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Split in October average around 18°C (64°F), and Korcula averages at about 18°C (64°F).

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

In October, Split usually receives around the same amount of rain as Korcula. Split gets 79 mm (3.1 in) of rain, while Korcula receives 79 mm (3.1 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Split or Korcula in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Split as well as Korcula. The museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Split this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Korcula for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

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

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

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

Should I visit Split or Korcula in the Spring?

Both Korcula and Split are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Split for the beaches and the activities around the city. Also, many visitors come to Korcula in the spring for the beaches and the natural beauty.

Split is around the same temperature as Korcula in the spring. The daily temperature in Split averages around 15°C (59°F) in April, and Korcula fluctuates around 15°C (59°F).

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

In April, Split usually receives around the same amount of rain as Korcula. Split gets 66 mm (2.6 in) of rain, while Korcula receives 66 mm (2.6 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Korcula and Split