A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Valletta vs. Split for Attractions, Food, Nightlife, and Old Town

Should you visit Valletta or Split?

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

Trying to figure out where to travel next? This travel comparison between Valletta and Split can help. It includes a travel cost comparison in addition to other factors. For many travelers, the cost of a destination is a primary consideration when choosing where to go.

Valletta

Valletta is a charming, cultural, and waterfront town. The beauty of this spot is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. Visitors also love the food, shopping, and museums.

Split

Split is a historic, active, and touristy 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.

Valletta and Split: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Valletta or Split?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Split. Although Valletta and Split are both popular with visitors, Split has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Split is more popular for its nightlife, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, and big city activities, while Valletta is known for its museums, food, historical sights, and impressive beauty. Split is more touristy than Valletta and is known for its historical sights, high energy coastal setting, and waterfront promenades. It is also home to Diocletian's Palace. Valletta is popular for its ancient fortifications, Baroque palaces, and beautiful gardens.

How is Valletta different from Split?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Valletta is terrific for its museums and history. Also, Split is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its museums and landmarks.

The museums and tourist attractions in Valletta are world-renowned. With its rich culture and compact old town, there are countless museums, sights, and monuments that are worth visiting. Some options include Saint John's Co-Cathedral, the Grandmaster's Palace and Armory, the National Museum of Archaeology, Manoel Theater, and the Upper Barrakka Gardens.

Split offers many unique museums, sights, and landmarks that will make for a memorable trip. 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.

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

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

Eat your way through Valletta, as it has many local or world renowned restaurants to choose from. The town's culinary scene has a long history with many traditional flavors. You really must experience a meal in one of the traditional stone cellar restaurants, which often serve local meze. Head to Republic Street for a stretch of longstanding restaurants in town. Local dishes include stuffat tal-fenek (rabbit stew), bragioli (rolled meat covered in sauce), and lampuki pie (fish pie).

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 Valletta or Split Better for Nightlife?

Split is terrific for its evening party scene. Also, Valletta is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for nightlife.

Split is a must-see party destination. 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.

Valletta has an active nightlife scene for those who seek it out. It wasn't long ago that the town went quiet in the evenings, but recent years have brought a surge in bars and clubs around town. You'll find the liveliest nightlife in areas around Strait Street and the Valletta Waterfront. If you're looking for a true clubbing scene, you'll want to head north out of town to Paceville.

Is Valletta or Split Better for Resorts?

Split is a very popular place for its luxury resorts. However, Valletta 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.

Valletta is not a resort destination.

Is Valletta or Split Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Split is a very popular place for snorkeling and scuba diving. However, Valletta is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

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.

Valletta is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Valletta or Split Better for Beaches?

Split is a very popular place for the beach. However, Valletta is lacking in good options for its beaches.

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.

Valletta is a good spot to see the beach. There aren't any beaches in town, but if you head north to St. George’s Bay you'll find some nice beaches with a variety of resorts to choose from.

Is Valletta or Split Better for its Old Town?

Valletta is terrific for its old town. Also, Split is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its historic old town charm.

Valletta has a unique history which comes to life in its historic area. The old town is laid out with a uniform grid and the streets are lined with hundreds of historic buildings. At the heart of old town is Republic Street, which divides the area in half and is where you'll find a large concentration of restaurants.

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 the Shopping Better in Valletta or Split?

Shoppers can find a variety of very good stores in both Valletta and Split.

Many visitors explore the shopping areas in Valletta. For the best shopping head to Republic Street and Merchants Street where you'll find craft shops, boutiques, and other local souvenirs. Many visitors enjoy picking up blown glass, a locally made miniature, or cactus liquor. Lace is also a common local item that you'll find around town.

Split is an extremely popular place for shoppers. 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 Valletta or Split Better for Families?

Split is a very popular place for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Valletta is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its family-friendly activities.

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.

You'll find plenty of kid-friendly things to do in Valletta. This charming town has nearby beaches as well as a few museums that kids will enjoy, including a toy museum. There are also several multi-media shows that educate visitors on the area's history. Make sure you check out Malta 5D and the Malta Experience.

Is Valletta or Split Better for Couples?

Both Valletta and Split are fantastic destinations for a couple's getaway.

Valletta is a great town for couples, as it has plenty to offer. The town offers beautiful walks, luxury spa experiences, and evening sunset cruises that are seeped in romance. During the evening you can enjoy a cocktail hour and then dine in one of the town's many unique restaurants.

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.

Is Valletta or Split Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Split is terrific for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Valletta is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for backpackers.

A large number of backpackers visit Split, as it is a very popular city for budget travelers. 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.

Backpackers come from all over to visit Valletta. The island has grown in popularity with backpackers, particularly those coming from Europe, as there are affordable flights and easy accessibility. You'll also find some nice hostels around town where you can stay on a budget.

Is Valletta or Split Better for Students?

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

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.

Valletta is not popular with students.

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

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

Valletta has some public transit options. If you're not up for walking up and down the hills, there are some buses around town.

You'll find some public transit in Split, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. There are bus services that will help you get around town.

Is Valletta or Split a more walkable city?

Valletta is terrific for its high level of walkability. Also, Split is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its ease of walking around.

It's very easy to get around on foot in Valletta. The town is compact and easy to walk around with many sights within a short distance of each other. There's also very little street traffic.

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 Valletta Worth Visiting? and Is Split Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Split or Valletta?

How long in Valletta or Split?

It's fun to spend time in either Valletta or Split. Generally, people tend to spend more time in Split due to the larger number of activities and things to do. Usually, 1-3 days is a good amount of time for Valletta, and 2-4 days is enough time in Split.

Families should spend more time in Split than Valletta. 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.

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

In Valletta, many people enjoy the shopping and museums that this charming destination offers. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. This town offers a variety of activities to choose from. Because of this, one day is usually enough time for a trip here.

The city of Split offers museums and nightlife. Most people come for the beaches. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

A weekend in Valletta or Split?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Valletta. For many, it makes a great getaway for a weekend. Most visitors spend time around the old town 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.

Split is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have a weekend, this city makes for a great vacation. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Split, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Five days in Valletta or Split?

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

Split is a popular choice for travelers. It's no surprise that nightlife is why people visit. 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. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

A week in Valletta or Split?

You'll find food and shopping around the waterfront destination of Valletta. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

Split is a great place to explore. It's no surprise that nightlife is why people visit. It's also a great beach destination, too. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. This city offers something for everyone.

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

When comparing the travel costs between Valletta and Split, we can see that Valletta 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 Valletta Expensive? and Is Split Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Valletta or Split?

Split has a larger population, and is about 30 times larger than the population of Valletta. When comparing the sizes of Valletta 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 Valletta or Split?

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

Should I visit Valletta or Split in the Summer?

Both Split and Valletta are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. The warm climate attracts visitors to Valletta throughout the year. Also, many travelers come to Split for the beaches, snorkeling, the city activities, and the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Valletta is generally around the same temperature as Split. Daily temperatures in Valletta average around 26°C (79°F), and Split fluctuates around 26°C (80°F).

It's quite sunny in Split. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Valletta. Valletta usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Split during summer. Valletta gets 365 hours of sunny skies, while Split receives 345 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Valletta usually receives less rain than Split. Valletta gets 10 mm (0.4 in) of rain, while Split receives 28 mm (1.1 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Valletta or Split in the Autumn?

Both Split and Valletta during the autumn are popular places to visit. Plenty of visitors come to Valletta because of the warm climate and sunshine that lasts throughout the year. Furthermore, many visitors come to Split in the autumn for the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene.

Valletta is a little warmer than Split in the autumn. The daily temperature in Valletta averages around 21°C (70°F) in October, and Split fluctuates around 18°C (64°F).

In Split, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Valletta. In the autumn, Valletta often gets more sunshine than Split. Valletta gets 221 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Split receives 200 hours of full sun.

Valletta usually gets around the same amount of rain in October as Split. Valletta gets 80 mm (3.1 in) of rain, while Split receives 79 mm (3.1 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Valletta or Split in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Valletta and Split. Warm weather and sunshine bring visitors to Valletta year-round. Furthermore, most visitors come to Split for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months.

In the winter, Valletta is much warmer than Split. Typically, the winter temperatures in Valletta in January average around 13°C (55°F), and Split averages at about 8°C (47°F).

Valletta usually receives more sunshine than Split during winter. Valletta gets 159 hours of sunny skies, while Split receives 128 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Valletta usually receives more rain than Split. Valletta gets 90 mm (3.5 in) of rain, while Split receives 83 mm (3.3 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Valletta or Split in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Valletta as well as Split. Valletta attracts visitors year-round for its warm weather and sunny climate. Additionally, the spring months attract visitors to Split because of the beaches and the activities around the city.

In April, Valletta is generally around the same temperature as Split. Daily temperatures in Valletta average around 16°C (61°F), and Split fluctuates around 15°C (59°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Split. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Valletta this time of the year. In the spring, Valletta often gets more sunshine than Split. Valletta gets 247 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Split receives 212 hours of full sun.

Valletta usually gets less rain in April than Split. Valletta gets 30 mm (1.2 in) of rain, while Split receives 66 mm (2.6 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Split and Valletta