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

Should you visit Split or Reykjavik?

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 Reykjavik. 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 budget-friendly, historic, and active city. Since it's a large city, you'll find plenty of things to do. Other reasons to visit include beaches, shopping, and museums.

Reykjavik

Reykjavik is a green, safe, and friendly city. It's considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. Visitors also love the hiking, shopping, and nightlife.

Split and Reykjavik: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Split or Reykjavik?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Split than Reykjavik. It is bigger and it has more sights, attractions, and activities for travelers. Split is very popular for its museums, food, nightlife, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, historical sights, shopping, and big city activities, while Reykjavik attracts visitors for its hiking and impressive beauty. Split is more touristy than Reykjavik and is known for its historical sights, high energy coastal setting, and waterfront promenades. It is also well known for Diocletian's Palace. Reykjavik is famous for its proximity to natural beauty and many thermal pools, as well as its active nightlife scene and many festivals.

How is Split different from Reykjavik?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Split is an excellent place to visit for its museums and history. However, Reykjavik does not have museums and landmarks.

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.

Reykjavik does not have museums and landmarks.

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

Split is an excellent place to visit for its restaurants. However, Reykjavik is lacking in options for its restaurant scene.

The food selection at local restaurants is excellent in Split. 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.

You'll find the standard options when it comes to food in Reykjavik. Traditional Icelandic food may not have the best reputation, but restaurants these days are pretty good with a variety of dishes to choose from. Popular foods in the area include fish, lamb, and Icelandic skyr (a type of yogurt).

Is Split or Reykjavik Better for Nightlife?

Split is an amazing city to visit for nightlife. Also, Reykjavik is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for nightlife and partying.

Split has a colorful and one-of-a-kind nightlife scene. 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.

Reykjavik has an active nightlife scene for those who seek it out. The city offers the best nightlife in Iceland and you'll be surprised at the number of clubs, bars, and craft breweries that you can choose from. Almost all of the popular nightlife spots are around Laugavegur, a major shopping street in town.

Is Split or Reykjavik Better for Resorts?

Split is an excellent place to visit for its luxury resorts. However, Reykjavik is not a resort destination.

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.

Reykjavik is not a resort destination.

Is Split or Reykjavik Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Split is an excellent place to visit for the nearby scuba diving and snorkeling. However, Reykjavik 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.

Reykjavik is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Split or Reykjavik Better for Beaches?

Split is an excellent place to visit for its beaches. However, Reykjavik is not a beach destination.

You'll have a great beach vacation in Split. 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.

Reykjavik is not a beach destination.

Is Split or Reykjavik Better for its Old Town?

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

Split is a good destination for visiting its 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.

Reykjavik does not have a historic old town.

Is Split or Reykjavik Better for Hiking?

Reykjavik is terrific for its hiking trails. However, Split is not a hiking destination.

Reykjavik is well-known for its hiking and trekking. The city offers easy access to some of the world's most spectacular scenery. There are many hikes that you can easily reach from town. They pass through diverse landscapes that include waterfalls, mountains, glaciers, and beaches.

Split is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Split or Reykjavik?

Split is an excellent place to visit for shopping. Also, Reykjavik is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its shopping opportunities.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting 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.

Reykjavik offers some nice shopping areas. The city's main shopping street is Laugavegur, which is where you'll find the most activity around town as well as a bustling atmosphere.

Is Split or Reykjavik Better for Families?

Both Split and Reykjavik are great 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.

Reykjavik is known to be a very family-friendly place to visit. With its many outdoor activities and hands on museums, the city is great for kids. The cafes and restaurants are family-friendly and their are plenty of entertainment options for the whole family.

Is Split or Reykjavik Better for Couples?

Split is an amazing city to visit for romance. Also, Reykjavik is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its romantic activities.

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.

Couples visit Reykjavik frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. There are museums, outdoor activities, and even the northern lights that make this city very romantic. The cafes are laid-back and the atmosphere is friendly.

Is Split or Reykjavik Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Split is an amazing city to visit for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Reykjavik is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for backpackers.

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.

Reykjavik is a good city to visit for backpackers. There are a number of hostels around town, but they can be pretty expensive. Transportation can also be pretty challenging for backpackers.

Is Split or Reykjavik Better for Students?

Split is an excellent place to visit for its student-friendly activities. Also, Reykjavik is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for students.

Split is a great city to visit as a student. 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.

Reykjavik is popular with students. Students will enjoy a unique experience in this city. There are good academic programs as well as beautiful outdoor settings that you can explore.

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

Visitors will find nice public transit in both Split and Reykjavik.

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

You'll find some public transit in Reykjavik, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. There is a fairly comprehensive bus system around town.

Is Split or Reykjavik a more walkable city?

Split and Reykjavik are great when it comes to walkability.

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.

Reykjavik is a very walkable destination. The city is small and compact, so it's easy to explore on foot.

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

Should I spend more time in Reykjavik or Split?

How long in Split or Reykjavik?

In either Split or Reykjavik, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. Most visitors tend to spend more time in Reykjavik than Split because of the overall number of sights and activities. Usually, 2-4 days is a good amount of time for Split, and 1-5 days is enough time in Reykjavik.

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

You'll find nightlife and food around the city of Split. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

In Reykjavik, many people enjoy the nightlife and shopping that this green destination offers. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. Lots of people come for the hiking. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Because of this, one day is usually enough time for a trip here.

A weekend in Split or Reykjavik?

You'll find food and scuba diving and snorkeling around the historic destination of Split. People usually spend lots of time at the beach. This is a popular place to visit for a weekend.A weekend should give you a good understanding of everything this city has to offer. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from.

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

Travelers enjoy the scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping when visiting the historic city of Split. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. It's also a relaxing resort destination. Most people head to the area for the nightlife. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

Reykjavik is a fun place to experience. In Reykjavik, many people enjoy the nightlife and shopping that this destination offers. Lots of people come for the hiking. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. This would be the perfect place to spend five days, as it has just the right amount of activities.

A week in Split or Reykjavik?

Split is a popular choice for travelers. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. 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. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

You'll find shopping and nightlife around the safe destination of Reykjavik. Hikers are also drawn to this area. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. Lots of people come for the hiking. 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 Iceland, and The Best Tours for Seniors to Iceland.

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

Which is Bigger, Split or Reykjavik?

Split has a larger population, and is about 55% larger than the population of Reykjavik. When comparing the sizes of Split and Reykjavik, 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 Reykjavik?

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 Split or Reykjavik in the Summer?

Both Reykjavik and Split are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Split in the summer for the beaches, snorkeling, the city activities, and the family-friendly experiences. Also, most visitors come to Reykjavik for the hiking and the family-friendly experiences during these months.

In July, Split is generally much warmer than Reykjavik. Daily temperatures in Split average around 26°C (80°F), and Reykjavik fluctuates around 11°C (52°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Split. Split usually receives more sunshine than Reykjavik during summer. Split gets 345 hours of sunny skies, while Reykjavik receives 171 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Split usually receives less rain than Reykjavik. Split gets 28 mm (1.1 in) of rain, while Reykjavik receives 52 mm (2 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Split or Reykjavik in the Autumn?

Both Reykjavik and Split during the autumn are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Split for the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene during these months. Also, the autumn months attract visitors to Reykjavik because of the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

The weather in Reykjavik can be very cold. Split is much warmer than Reykjavik in the autumn. The daily temperature in Split averages around 18°C (64°F) in October, and Reykjavik fluctuates around 5°C (41°F).

It's quite sunny in Split. In the autumn, Split often gets more sunshine than Reykjavik. Split gets 200 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Reykjavik receives 83 hours of full sun.

Split usually gets less rain in October than Reykjavik. Split gets 79 mm (3.1 in) of rain, while Reykjavik receives 86 mm (3.4 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Split or Reykjavik in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Split and Reykjavik. The winter months attract visitors to Split because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, the shopping scene and the cuisine are the main draw to Reykjavik this time of year.

It's quite cold in Reykjavik in the winter. In the winter, Split is much warmer than Reykjavik. Typically, the winter temperatures in Split in January average around 8°C (47°F), and Reykjavik averages at about -0°C (32°F).

Split usually receives more sunshine than Reykjavik during winter. Split gets 128 hours of sunny skies, while Reykjavik receives 27 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Split usually receives more rain than Reykjavik. Split gets 83 mm (3.3 in) of rain, while Reykjavik receives 76 mm (3 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Split or Reykjavik in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Split as well as Reykjavik. The beaches and the activities around the city are the main draw to Split this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Reykjavik for the natural beauty.

Be prepared for some very cold days in Reykjavik. In April, Split is generally much warmer than Reykjavik. Daily temperatures in Split average around 15°C (59°F), and Reykjavik fluctuates around 3°C (38°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Split this time of the year. In the spring, Split often gets more sunshine than Reykjavik. Split gets 212 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Reykjavik receives 140 hours of full sun.

Split usually gets more rain in April than Reykjavik. Split gets 66 mm (2.6 in) of rain, while Reykjavik receives 58 mm (2.3 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Reykjavik and Split