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

Should you visit Split or Rijeka?

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 Rijeka. 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. Other popular activities here include scuba diving and snorkeling, beaches, and shopping.

Rijeka

Rijeka is a coastal, accessible, and diverse town. It's a large city, so you'll find plenty of things to do around town. Visitors also love the food, shopping, and museums.

Split and Rijeka: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Split or Rijeka?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Split than Rijeka, as it is bigger with more sights, attractions, and activities for visitors. Split is more touristy than Rijeka and is popular for its historical sights, high energy coastal setting, and waterfront promenades. It is also home to Diocletian's Palace. Rijeka is popular for being a transportation hub in Croatia with a ferry and cruise ship port.

How is Split different from Rijeka?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Split is a well-known place for its sights and museums. Also, Rijeka is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for its museums and history.

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.

Rijeka is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. Historical sights around town include Trsat Castle, the Petar Druzic Stairway, and Our Lady of Trsat. There are also museums such as PEEK&POKE Computer Museum and the Governor's Palace and Maritime and Historical Museum.

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

Split is a well-known place for its local cuisine and restaurants. Also, Rijeka is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for its restaurants.

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.

There are plenty of up and coming restaurants around Rijeka. It's known for its Mediterranean cuisine which includes more than seafood. There are local vegetable specialties in the area as well including asparagus and white truffles. Codfish stew and cuttlefish risotto are also popular.

Is Split or Rijeka Better for Nightlife?

Split is renowned for its evening party scene. Also, Rijeka is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for nightlife.

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.

Rijeka has a large number of nightlife venues. The city center has plenty of bars and clubs. Restaurants also stay open late and are popular places to hang out for locals and tourists alike.

Is Split or Rijeka Better for Resorts?

Split is a well-known place for its resorts. However, Rijeka is not a resort destination.

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.

Rijeka is not a resort destination.

Is Split or Rijeka Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Split is a well-known place for snorkeling and scuba diving. However, Rijeka 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.

Rijeka is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Split or Rijeka Better for Beaches?

Split is a well-known place for the beach. However, Rijeka is not a good town 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.

Rijeka is a good spot to see the beach. There are pebbly and gravelly beaches in the area, with the best beaches to the west of the city. You'll need to take a public bus to reach most of them.

Is Split or Rijeka Better for its Old Town?

Split is very good for its historic old town charm. However, Rijeka does not have a historic old town.

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.

Rijeka does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Split or Rijeka?

Split is a well-known place for its shopping areas. Also, Rijeka is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for shopping.

Browsing through shops is a popular activity 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.

Plenty of visitors enjoy shopping while in Rijeka. There are many shopping centers, retail stores, and souvenir shops around town.

Is Split or Rijeka Better for Families?

Both Split and Rijeka 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.

Rijeka is known to be a very family-friendly place to visit. The city has a number of outdoor activities for kids like nature parks and nearby beaches. There's also a puppet theater as well as the Astronomical Center of Rijeka.

Is Split or Rijeka Better for Couples?

Split is renowned for couples. Also, Rijeka is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for romance.

For those traveling as a couple, Split 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.

Rijeka is a nice destination for couples. It's a gateway to the Croatian islands. Many couples enjoy walking down the waterfront promenade or dining at a nice local restaurant. There are also beaches, parks, and historical sights to explore.

Is Split or Rijeka Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Split is renowned for backpackers. Also, Rijeka is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for backpackers and budget travelers.

Split is a very popular city to visit 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.

It's common for backpackers to visit Rijeka. There's no shortage of affordable hostels around town for backpackers and budget travelers.

Is Split or Rijeka Better for Students?

Split is a well-known place for students. Also, Rijeka is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for its student-friendly activities.

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.

Plenty of students visit Rijeka. It's a laid back seaside city that makes a nice semester abroad destination. As a gateway to the Croatian islands, it also offers transportation connections to other points of interest.

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

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

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

You'll find some public transit in Rijeka, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. KD Autrolej buses provide transit throughout the city.

Is Split or Rijeka a more walkable city?

Split is a well-known place for its ease of walking around. Also, Rijeka is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit 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.

Rijeka is somewhat walkable. Parts of the city are more walkable than others.

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

Should I spend more time in Rijeka or Split?

How long in Split or Rijeka?

You'll be able to find lots of things to do in Split or Rijeka to fill your time. Many travelers usually spend more of their time in Split than Rijeka because of the number of activities and things to do in the area. Usually, 2-4 days is a good amount of time for Split, and 1-2 days is enough time in Rijeka.

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

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 Rijeka, many people enjoy the shopping and museums that this coastal destination offers. This town 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 Rijeka?

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 Rijeka. 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 Rijeka?

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.

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

A week in Split or Rijeka?

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the budget-friendly 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 food and shopping around the accessible destination of Rijeka. 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 comparing the travel costs between Split and Rijeka, 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. Since both cities are in Europe, it's no surprise that their costs are relatively close, as many destinations here have somewhat similar travel prices overall.

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

Which is Bigger, Split or Rijeka?

Split has a larger population, and is about 25% larger than the population of Rijeka. When comparing the sizes of Split and Rijeka, 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 Rijeka?

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 Rijeka in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Split as well as Rijeka. Many travelers come to Split for the beaches, snorkeling, the city activities, and the family-friendly experiences. Also, many visitors come to Rijeka in the summer for the beaches, the city activities, and the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Split is around the same temperature as Rijeka. Typically, the summer temperatures in Split in July average around 26°C (80°F), and Rijeka averages at about 24°C (75°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Rijeka. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Split this time of the year. In the summer, Split often gets more sunshine than Rijeka. Split gets 345 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Rijeka receives 288 hours of full sun.

Split usually gets less rain in July than Rijeka. Split gets 28 mm (1.1 in) of rain, while Rijeka receives 71 mm (2.8 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Split or Rijeka in the Autumn?

Both Rijeka and Split are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Split in the autumn for the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene. Also, most visitors come to Rijeka for the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene during these months.

In October, Split is generally a little warmer than Rijeka. Daily temperatures in Split average around 18°C (64°F), and Rijeka fluctuates around 16°C (60°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Split. Split usually receives more sunshine than Rijeka during autumn. Split gets 200 hours of sunny skies, while Rijeka receives 167 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Split usually receives less rain than Rijeka. Split gets 79 mm (3.1 in) of rain, while Rijeka receives 87 mm (3.4 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Split or Rijeka in the Winter?

Both Rijeka and Split during the winter are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Split for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months. Furthermore, the winter months attract visitors to Rijeka because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Split is much warmer than Rijeka in the winter. The daily temperature in Split averages around 8°C (47°F) in January, and Rijeka fluctuates around 5°C (41°F).

In the winter, Split often gets more sunshine than Rijeka. Split gets 128 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Rijeka receives 96 hours of full sun.

Split usually gets more rain in January than Rijeka. Split gets 83 mm (3.3 in) of rain, while Rijeka receives 71 mm (2.8 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Split or Rijeka in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Split and Rijeka. The spring months attract visitors to Split because of the beaches and the activities around the city. Furthermore, the beaches and the activities around the city are the main draw to Rijeka this time of year.

In the spring, Split is a little warmer than Rijeka. Typically, the spring temperatures in Split in April average around 15°C (59°F), and Rijeka averages at about 13°C (56°F).

In Split, it's very sunny this time of the year. Split usually receives more sunshine than Rijeka during spring. Split gets 212 hours of sunny skies, while Rijeka receives 177 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Split usually receives less rain than Rijeka. Split gets 66 mm (2.6 in) of rain, while Rijeka receives 87 mm (3.4 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Rijeka and Split