A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Ventimiglia vs. Split for Couples, Food, Beaches, and Old Town

Should you visit Ventimiglia or Split?

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

Should I visit Ventimiglia or Split? This is a common question asked by many travelers. By figuring out which city has activities that align with your interests along with knowing which is more affordable, you'll understand where you can get more bang for your buck. So, let's dive into the details and the data, which all comes from actual travelers.

Ventimiglia

Ventimiglia is a classic, authentic, and elegant seaside town. You'll find plenty of local activities in this small town. It's considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. Visitors also love the beaches, shopping, and food.

Split

Split is a touristy, fun-filled, and budget-friendly 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.

Ventimiglia and Split: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular beach
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Small town charm
  • Impressive beauty
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for nightlife
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Nice resorts
  • Good scuba and snorkeling destination
  • Popular beach
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good for students


Is there more to do in Ventimiglia or Split?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Split. Although Ventimiglia and Split are both popular with visitors, Split has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Split is more popular for its museums, nightlife, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, and big city activities, while Ventimiglia is known for its historical sights, small town charm, and impressive beauty. Split is more touristy than Ventimiglia and is popular for its historical sights, high energy coastal setting, and waterfront promenades. It is also home to Diocletian's Palace. Ventimiglia is popular for its weekly market, colorful old town, and nice beaches.

How is Ventimiglia different from Split?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Ventimiglia
Split

Split is a great destination for its museums and landmarks. However, Ventimiglia does not have museums and landmarks.

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.

Ventimiglia does not have museums and landmarks.


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

Ventimiglia
Split

Foodies will find both Ventimiglia and Split both to be superb destinations.

Dining out in Ventimiglia is an experience not to be missed. Italian classics are abundant including tiramisus, Italian pizzas, risotto alla milanese, and traditional lasagna. If you're in town on a Friday you should visit the local market which has stalls selling local produce and foods.

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.

Is Ventimiglia or Split Better for Nightlife?

Ventimiglia
Split

Split is a world-class destination for its evening party scene. However, Ventimiglia is a seaside town with minimal options 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.

The nightlife scene is quiet in Ventimiglia Most people don't head to town for the nightlife, but there are some bars where you can grab a drink or sip a glass of wine.

Is Ventimiglia or Split Better for Resorts?

Ventimiglia
Split

Split is a great destination for its resorts. However, Ventimiglia is not a resort destination.

Split is known as a popular and fun resort destination. 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.

Ventimiglia is not a resort destination.


Is Ventimiglia or Split Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Ventimiglia
Split

Split is a great destination for snorkeling and scuba diving. However, Ventimiglia is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Many visitors partake in scuba diving or snorkeing while visiting 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.

Ventimiglia is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Ventimiglia or Split Better for Beaches?

Ventimiglia
Split

Split is a great destination for the beach. Also, Ventimiglia is still popular, but not quite as popular for its beaches.

Split is considered a top beach destination. 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.

Many people head to Ventimiglia to enjoy the beach. The lungomare is a promenade along the sea that allows visitors to wander and take in waterfront views. Most of the beaches are free to access and have been influenced by the coastal erosion efforts which have led to a series of scalloped bays. If you reach the end of the lungomare you'll find a natural area where the Roya and Nervia rivers meet the ocean. This is also a popular spot for breeding birds.

Is Ventimiglia or Split Better for its Old Town?

Ventimiglia
Split

Ventimiglia 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 Ventimiglia. The old town is filled with cobblestone streets and charming pastel buildings. There are also a number of historic buildings and monuments that give the town a special atmosphere.

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 Ventimiglia or Split?

Ventimiglia
Split

Shopping is a popular activity in both Split and Ventimiglia.

Browsing through shops is a popular activity in Ventimiglia. Most people head in town on Friday for the market, which has stalls selling crafts and local products.

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.

Is Ventimiglia or Split Better for Families?

Ventimiglia
Split

Split is a great destination for its family-friendly activities. Also, Ventimiglia is still popular, but not quite as popular for its kid-friendly activities.

Split is known to be a very family-friendly place to visit. 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.

Ventimiglia offers lots of family activities. The charming town is a great place for kids to explore. There is a botanical garden and hiking trails that the whole family can enjoy as well as quiet beaches where they can play. The Italian food is also perfect for young palates.

Is Ventimiglia or Split Better for Couples?

Ventimiglia
Split

Split is a world-class destination for couples. Also, Ventimiglia is still popular, but not quite as popular for romance.

Split makes for a terrific place to visit as a couple. 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.

Ventimiglia is a great seaside town if you're traveling as a couple. This quintessential Italian town offers a romantic setting with cobblestone streets and pastel buildings. There are many culinary delights and romantic settings that are perfect for couples. The hiking trails and botanical gardens are also fun places to explore.


Is Ventimiglia or Split Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Ventimiglia
Split

Split is a world-class destination for backpackers. However, Ventimiglia is not a backpacker-friendly destination.

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.

Ventimiglia is not a backpacker-friendly destination.

Is Ventimiglia or Split Better for Students?

Ventimiglia
Split

Split is a great destination for students. However, Ventimiglia is not popular with students.

Split is a very popular city for students and younger travelers. 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.

Ventimiglia is not popular with students.

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

Ventimiglia
Split

You'll find somewhat comparable public transit options in both Ventimiglia and Split.

You'll find some public transit in Ventimiglia, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. There are trains and buses to town. Once you're in town it's easy to explore on foot.

While Split offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. There are bus services that will help you get around town.


Is Ventimiglia or Split a more walkable city?

Ventimiglia
Split

Ventimiglia and Split both are superb when exploring on foot.

Ventimiglia is a very walkable destination. It's small size and charming atmosphere make it a great town to explore on foot.

Split is very walkable. 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 Ventimiglia Worth Visiting? and Is Split Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Split or Ventimiglia?

How long in Ventimiglia or Split?

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Split than Ventimiglia 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.


  • How many days in Ventimiglia or Split? Ideal Length of Stay
    Ventimiglia 1-2 
    Split 2-4

One day in Ventimiglia or Split?

Even though Ventimiglia is a small town, it has plenty of activities to choose from. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. This seaside town offers a variety of activities to choose from. Because of this, one day is usually enough time for a trip here.

Visitors enjoy the scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping when visiting the active city of Split. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. Most people visit for the nightlife. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

A weekend in Ventimiglia or Split?

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

Visitors enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the touristy destination of Split. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. This city offers something for everyone. Plenty of people spend a weekend in the area when traveling. If you enjoy all that's offered here, then a weekend is just the right amount of time to spend here.


Five days in Ventimiglia or Split?

Ventimiglia is a fun place to experience. Ventimiglia is a small town, so it's a great destination if you're short on time. Visiting the old town is also a must. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything.

The historic city of Split offers museums and nightlife. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. Five days may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel.

A week in Ventimiglia or Split?

Ventimiglia is a small town, so you can explore the area with less time. 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.

Many people enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting Split. Anyone can find something fun to do here. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. Most people visit for the nightlife. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.


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


Which place is cheaper, Split or Ventimiglia?

These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations.

The average daily cost (per person) in Ventimiglia is €121, while the average daily cost in Split is €110. These costs include accommodation (assuming double occupancy, so the traveler is sharing the room), food, transportation, and entertainment. While every person is different, these costs are an average of past travelers in each destination. What follows is a categorical breakdown of travel costs for Ventimiglia and Split in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Ventimiglia 51
    Split 74
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Ventimiglia 102
    Split 148
Compare Hotels in Ventimiglia and Split

Looking for a hotel in Ventimiglia or Split? Prices vary by location, date, season, and the level of luxury. See below for options and compare which is best for your budget and travel style.

Hotels in Ventimiglia


Hotels in Split


Kayak helps you find the best prices for hotels, flights, and rental cars for destinations around the world. Compare prices for multiple destinations when planning your next trip.


Our Analysis
We've analyzed the average and typical hotel prices based on guest reviews, star ratings, and hotel amenities here: Ventimiglia Hotel Prices and Split Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Ventimiglia 49
    Split 15

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Split

Also for Split, here are a few examples of actual transportation services:

  • Split Airport (SPU) to Cruise Port of Split - Round-Trip Private Transfer: $55
  • Airport Private Transfer from Split: $37
  • Airport Private Transfer to Split : $37
  • Airport transfers - round trip: $148
  • Airport transfers, Locco transfers, Port transfers: $77
  • Be transferred in style! Every day Airport Transfer of Split: $109
  • Cruise Port of Split to Split Hotels - Arrival Private Transfer: $28
  • Cruise Port of Private Transfer to Split hotels: $134
  • Departure Transfer Split City to Split Airport SPU by Car or Van: $51
  • Direct Transfer In Private Car From Split To Dubrovnik: $243
  • From Split Airport to Baska Voda (Private Transfer, Free WiFi): $131
  • From Split or Trogir: Cetina River Rafting with Transfer: $76

Is it cheaper to fly into Ventimiglia or Split?

Prices for flights to both Split and Ventimiglia change regularly based on dates and travel demand. We suggest you find the best prices for your next trip on Kayak, because you can compare the cost of flights across multiple airlines for your prefered dates.





Food
  • Food Meals for one day
    Ventimiglia 38
    Split 24

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Ventimiglia

Also, here are some specific examples of food and dining related activities in Ventimiglia.

  • Cooking Class Pesto Sauce: $76
  • Cooking Class Tiramisu': $88
  • Dining Experience at a local's Home in Sanremo with Show Cooking: $94
  • SANREMO FOOD TOUR - Authentic Ligurian street food and Medieval town: $96
  • Pizza Making Class in Sanremo: $142
  • Private Cooking Class at a Cesarina's Home in Sanremo: $160
  • Sanremo Home Cooking Class: $224

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Split

For Split, here are some samples of tours and activities related to meals and dining experiences:

  • Small Group Food Tour: $38
  • Food Tour in Split ( Small Group): $69
  • Homemade Dinner under the Stars in Split: $85
  • Vegan Food tour of Split with local gastronomy: $103
  • Split Food Tour: Discover Split One Bite At A Time: $133
  • Split Cooking Class: $171
  • Private Authentic Wine & Food tour from Split: $242

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Ventimiglia 27
    Split 3.75

Tours and Activities in Ventimiglia

Here are a few actual costs in Ventimiglia for available activities, ticket prices, and tours:

  • 1 Day road bike tour of Ligurian mountains from Italian Riviera : $77
  • Small Group E-bike Tour in the Ligurian Riviera with Lunch: $110
  • Vespa Tour in Sanremo for half a day: $94

Tours and Activities in Split

For Split, here are a few prices for actual activities, tours, and tickets provided by various companies:

  • First Discovery Walk and Reading Walking Tour: $3.26
  • Emanuel Vidović Gallery Entrance Ticket: $5.43
  • Self-Guided Highlights Scavenger Hunt & Tour: $6.52
  • City Exploration Game and Tour: $6.52
  • Split Scavenger Hunt and Best Landmarks Self-Guided Tour: $6.63
  • Entry Ticket to the Cellars of Diocletian's Palace: $8.69
  • Split's Old Town and Marjan Hill: A Self-Guided Audio Tour: $8.99
  • Split's Old Town and Marjan Hill: A Self Guided Audio Tour: $8.99
  • Roman Ruins Sightseeing Self-Guided Audio Tour: $8.99
  • Walking Tour with Audio Guide on App: $9.50
  • Klis Fortress GOT and Olive Museum Entry Tickets: $11
  • Diocletian's Palace Virtual Reality Experience: $11

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Ventimiglia 7.19
    Split 8.04

Sample the Local Flavors in Split

Also in Split, these are the prices for nightlife and alcohol related activities from various tour providers:

  • Krka & Sibenik Tour with Boat Ride, Swimming or Wine Tasting: $23
  • From Krka Waterfalls, Food & Wine Tasting Tour: $25
  • Tower Pub Crawl in Split: $30
  • Split/Trogir: Krka National Park Day Trip with Wine Tasting: $38
  • Wine Tasting and Sunset Klis Fortress Tour from Split: $39
  • Krka Waterfalls, Food & Wine Tasting tour from Split: $40
  • Krka National Park Tour with tour Guide & Wine tasting from Split & Trogir: $46
  • Wine Tasting in the Diocletian's Palace: $49
  • Small group Walking Tour and Wine Tasting: $60
  • Diocletian's Palace Walking and Wine Tasting Tour: $65
  • Vineyard Experience: Wine Tasting near Split: $77
  • Blue Lagoon & Wine tasting - 3 islands tour: $99


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


Which is Bigger, Ventimiglia or Split?

Split has a larger population, and is about 7 times larger than the population of Ventimiglia. When comparing the sizes of Ventimiglia 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 Ventimiglia or Split?

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 Ventimiglia or Split in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Ventimiglia as well as Split. Most visitors come to Ventimiglia for the beaches, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences during these months. Additionally, the summer months attract visitors to Split because of the beaches, snorkeling, the city activities, and the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Ventimiglia is generally cooler than Split. Daily temperatures in Ventimiglia average around 23°C (73°F), and Split fluctuates around 26°C (80°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Split. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Ventimiglia this time of the year. In the summer, Ventimiglia often gets less sunshine than Split. Ventimiglia gets 295 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Split receives 345 hours of full sun.

Ventimiglia usually gets less rain in July than Split. Ventimiglia gets 16 mm (0.6 in) of rain, while Split receives 28 mm (1.1 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Ventimiglia 23°C (73°F) 
    Split 26°C (80°F)

Should I visit Ventimiglia or Split in the Autumn?

Both Split and Ventimiglia are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. The autumn months attract visitors to Ventimiglia because of the shopping scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area. Also, the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene are the main draw to Split this time of year.

Ventimiglia is around the same temperature as Split in the autumn. The daily temperature in Ventimiglia averages around 17°C (63°F) in October, and Split fluctuates around 18°C (64°F).

It's quite sunny in Split. Ventimiglia usually receives less sunshine than Split during autumn. Ventimiglia gets 183 hours of sunny skies, while Split receives 200 hours of full sun in the autumn.

It's quite rainy in Ventimiglia. In October, Ventimiglia usually receives more rain than Split. Ventimiglia gets 108 mm (4.3 in) of rain, while Split receives 79 mm (3.1 in) of rain each month for the autumn.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Ventimiglia 17°C (63°F) 
    Split 18°C (64°F)

Should I visit Ventimiglia or Split in the Winter?

Both Split and Ventimiglia during the winter are popular places to visit. The shopping scene and the cuisine are the main draw to Ventimiglia this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Split for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

In the winter, Ventimiglia is around the same temperature as Split. Typically, the winter temperatures in Ventimiglia in January average around 9°C (48°F), and Split averages at about 8°C (47°F).

In the winter, Ventimiglia often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Split. Ventimiglia gets 127 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Split receives 128 hours of full sun.

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


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Ventimiglia 9°C (48°F) 
    Split 8°C (47°F)

Should I visit Ventimiglia or Split in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Ventimiglia and Split. Many travelers come to Ventimiglia for the beaches, the small town charm, and the natural beauty. Also, many visitors come to Split in the spring for the beaches and the activities around the city.

In April, Ventimiglia is generally cooler than Split. Daily temperatures in Ventimiglia average around 13°C (56°F), and Split fluctuates around 15°C (59°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Split this time of the year. Ventimiglia usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Split during spring. Ventimiglia gets 198 hours of sunny skies, while Split receives 212 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Ventimiglia usually receives around the same amount of rain as Split. Ventimiglia gets 62 mm (2.4 in) of rain, while Split receives 66 mm (2.6 in) of rain each month for the spring.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Ventimiglia 13°C (56°F) 
    Split 15°C (59°F)

Typical Weather for Split and Ventimiglia

Ventimiglia Split
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 9°C (48°F) 83 mm (3.3 in) 8°C (47°F) 83 mm (3.3 in)
Feb 9°C (49°F) 76 mm (3 in) 9°C (48°F) 68 mm (2.7 in)
Mar 11°C (51°F) 71 mm (2.8 in) 11°C (52°F) 75 mm (3 in)
Apr 13°C (56°F) 62 mm (2.4 in) 15°C (59°F) 66 mm (2.6 in)
May 16°C (62°F) 49 mm (1.9 in) 20°C (67°F) 56 mm (2.2 in)
Jun 20°C (68°F) 36 mm (1.4 in) 23°C (74°F) 51 mm (2 in)
Jul 23°C (73°F) 16 mm (0.6 in) 26°C (80°F) 28 mm (1.1 in)
Aug 23°C (73°F) 31 mm (1.2 in) 26°C (79°F) 50 mm (2 in)
Sep 21°C (69°F) 54 mm (2.1 in) 22°C (72°F) 61 mm (2.4 in)
Oct 17°C (63°F) 108 mm (4.3 in) 18°C (64°F) 79 mm (3.1 in)
Nov 12°C (54°F) 104 mm (4.1 in) 13°C (56°F) 108 mm (4.3 in)
Dec 10°C (49°F) 78 mm (3.1 in) 10°C (49°F) 100 mm (3.9 in)