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

Should you visit Split or Quepos?

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 Quepos. 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 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. See Split travel costs.

Quepos

Quepos is a laid-back, relaxed, and local town. Visitors also love the food, beaches, and shopping. See Quepos travel costs.

Split and Quepos: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Split or Quepos?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Split. Although Split and Quepos are both popular with visitors, Split has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Split is more touristy than Quepos and is known for its historical sights, high energy coastal setting, and waterfront promenades. It is also home to Diocletian's Palace. Quepos is popular for its big game sport fishing.

How is Split different from Quepos?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Quepos 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 Quepos?

Split is a very popular place for its museums and history. However, Quepos is lacking in good options for its museums and landmarks.

Many visitors head to Split specifically to visit some of its top-rated museums and other sights. 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.

Quepos offers a few options for museum-goers. You won't find much as far as museums go around town.

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

Split is a very popular place for its restaurants. Also, Quepos is not quite as popular, but is fairly good 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.

Quepos offers number of good local restaurants to choose from. You'll find a mix of cafes, fine dining, and seafood restaurants in the area. You can get traditional Costa Rican dishes as well as a more international flavor depending on your preference.

Is Split or Quepos Better for Nightlife?

Split is a world-class destination for its evening party scene. Also, Quepos is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for nightlife.

People head to Split just to party. 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.

Quepos has an active nightlife scene for those who seek it out. You'll find a few bars and clubs around town, but it is a small town and the selection can be limited.

Is Split or Quepos Better for Resorts?

Split is a very popular place for its luxury resorts. However, Quepos is lacking in good options for its resorts.

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.

Quepos has a few resort options worth checking out. It's a fishing town with a local vibe, so you'll likely want to stay outside of town if you're looking for an upscale resort.

Is Split or Quepos Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Split is a very popular place for snorkeling and scuba diving. However, Quepos 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.

Quepos is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Split or Quepos Better for Beaches?

Split is a very popular place for the beach. Also, Quepos is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its beaches.

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.

Quepos has a beach worth visiting. If you want to be close to the beach, you'll do better to stay at nearby Manuel Antonio. Quepos does have a waterfront and access to deep sea fishing.

Is Split or Quepos Better for its Old Town?

Split is very good for its historic old town charm. However, Quepos 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.

Quepos does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Split or Quepos?

Split is a very popular place for its shopping areas. Also, Quepos 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.

Quepos is a great destination for shopping. You'll find boutique shops around town that sell everything from clothing to art.

Is Split or Quepos Better for Families?

Both Split and Quepos are high quality 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.

Quepos is known to be a very family-friendly place to visit. Most of the beaches are kid-friendly and the children will love the wildlife. You'll also find zipline tours in the area as well as canopy walks.

Is Split or Quepos Better for Couples?

Split and Quepos both first-rate destinations for a couple.

Split is fantastic couple's destination with fun and romantic activities. 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.

Quepos makes for a terrific place to visit as a couple. The beaches and resorts make this a favorite honeymoon destination for couples. There are many great restaurants and plenty of activities like horseback riding or surfing nearby.

Is Split or Quepos Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Split and Quepos are both first-rate destinations for backpackers.

With so many budget-friendly offerings, Split is extremely popular for backpackers. 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.

Quepos is a very popular city to visit for backpackers. It's one of the more popular destinations in Costa Rica, so you'll find plenty of hostels and other backpackers to hang out with.

Is Split or Quepos Better for Students?

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

Quepos is not popular with students.

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

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

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

You'll find some public transit in Quepos, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. There are a number of buses that pass through town. There are also buses that travel between Quepos and Manuel Antonio.

Is Split or Quepos a more walkable city?

Split is a very popular place for its ease of walking around. Also, Quepos is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its walkability.

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.

Quepos is somewhat walkable. It is a relatively walkable town.

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

Should I spend more time in Quepos or Split?

How long in Split or Quepos?

It's fun to spend time in either Split or Quepos. In our opinion, Split has more to see and do, so we recommend that you spend more time in Split than Quepos. However, 2-4 days is a good amount of time to spend in either destination.

Families should spend more time in Split than Quepos. 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 Quepos. 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 Quepos 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 Quepos?

Many travelers enjoy the scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping when visiting the destination of Split. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

In Quepos, many people enjoy the nightlife and food that this laid-back destination offers. This town 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 Quepos?

Split is a great place to explore. It is common to spend a weekend here. Don't miss the nightlife, as that's what most people do. With all of its activities, you can easily fill a weekend here. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

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

Five days in Split or Quepos?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Split. Don't miss the nightlife, as that's what most people do. Most people come for the beaches. Five days may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

Quepos is a fun place to experience. Travelers enjoy the shopping and nightlife when visiting the destination of Quepos. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything.

A week in Split or Quepos?

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the touristy destination of Split. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

You'll find nightlife and food around the laid-back destination of Quepos. 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 Wildlife Tours to Costa Rica, and The Best Hiking & Trekking Tours in Costa Rica.

When comparing the travel costs between Split and Quepos, we can see that Split is more expensive. However, the two cities are actually relatively comparable in price, as the difference is somewhat minimal. Generally, this means that you could travel with generally the same travel style and level of luxury in each place. Even though Split is in Europe and Quepos is in Central America, both of these destinations have relatively similar prices of travel. Generally, the levels of luxury and expenses are the same for these cities even though they are geographically far apart.

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

Which is Bigger, Split or Quepos?

Split has a larger population, and is about 20 times larger than the population of Quepos. When comparing the sizes of Split and Quepos, 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 Quepos?

Split has a temperate climate with four distinct seasons, but Quepos experiences a warm climate with fairly sunny weather most of the year.

Should I visit Split or Quepos in the Summer?

Both Quepos and Split are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Split for the beaches, snorkeling, the city activities, and the family-friendly experiences. Plenty of visitors come to Quepos because of the warm climate and sunshine that lasts throughout the year.

In the summer, Split is around the same temperature as Quepos. Typically, the summer temperatures in Split in July average around 26°C (80°F), and Quepos averages at about 28°C (82°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Split. Split usually receives more sunshine than Quepos during summer. Split gets 345 hours of sunny skies, while Quepos receives 164 hours of full sun in the summer.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Quepos. In July, Split usually receives less rain than Quepos. Split gets 28 mm (1.1 in) of rain, while Quepos receives 164 mm (6.5 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Split or Quepos in the Autumn?

Both Quepos and Split during the autumn are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Split in the autumn for the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene. Warm weather and sunshine bring visitors to Quepos year-round.

In October, Split is generally much colder than Quepos. Daily temperatures in Split average around 18°C (64°F), and Quepos fluctuates around 27°C (81°F).

It's quite sunny in Split. In the autumn, Split often gets more sunshine than Quepos. Split gets 200 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Quepos receives 169 hours of full sun.

Quepos gets a good bit of rain this time of year. Split usually gets less rain in October than Quepos. Split gets 79 mm (3.1 in) of rain, while Quepos receives 254 mm (10 in) of rain this time of the year. December to April is the dry season in Quepos. Also, May to November in Quepos is the hurricane season.

Should I visit Split or Quepos in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Split and Quepos. Most visitors come to Split for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months. Quepos attracts visitors year-round for its warm weather and sunny climate.

Split is much colder than Quepos in the winter. The daily temperature in Split averages around 8°C (47°F) in January, and Quepos fluctuates around 27°C (81°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Quepos this time of the year. Split usually receives less sunshine than Quepos during winter. Split gets 128 hours of sunny skies, while Quepos receives 264 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Split usually receives more rain than Quepos. Split gets 83 mm (3.3 in) of rain, while Quepos receives 8 mm (0.3 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Split or Quepos in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Split as well as Quepos. The spring months attract visitors to Split because of the beaches and the activities around the city. The warm climate attracts visitors to Quepos throughout the year.

In the spring, Split is much colder than Quepos. Typically, the spring temperatures in Split in April average around 15°C (59°F), and Quepos averages at about 29°C (85°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Quepos. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Split this time of the year. In the spring, Split often gets less sunshine than Quepos. Split gets 212 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Quepos receives 255 hours of full sun.

Split usually gets more rain in April than Quepos. Split gets 66 mm (2.6 in) of rain, while Quepos receives 28 mm (1.1 in) of rain this time of the year. Also, December to April in Quepos is the dry season. Also, the hurricane season in Quepos is May to November.

Typical Weather for Quepos and Split