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

Should you visit Vienna or Split?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Vienna or Split, this travel comparison, which includes costs, can help. The overall cost of travel is usually a consideration when deciding where to go next, and the cost comparison down below can help you decide based on the average prices from other travelers along with your own travel budget.

Vienna

Vienna is a classical, traditional, and artistic city. It's considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. Visitors also love the live music, food, and shopping.

Split

Split is a budget-friendly, historic, and active city. It's a large city, so you'll find plenty of things to do around town. Visitors also love the food, scuba diving and snorkeling, and beaches.

Vienna and Split: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Vienna or Split?

Visitors will generally find more to do in Split than Vienna. While Vienna is larger than Split, Split has more sights, attractions, and activities for tourists. Split is better known for its nightlife, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, and big city activities, while Vienna is more popular for its music, historical sights, shopping, and impressive beauty. Vienna is well known for its strong classical music roots including being home to both Mozart and Beethoven. Split is well known for its historical sights, high energy coastal setting, and waterfront promenades. Also, Split is famous for Diocletian's Palace.

How is Vienna different from Split?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Visiting museums and landmarks is a fun activity in both Vienna and Split.

With a variety of museums, monuments, and historical sights, a trip to Vienna can be an interesting and educational experience. Filled with palaces, museums, and parks, there are many things to see around town. Make sure you check out the Schönbrunn Palace, Hofburg, and Kunsthistorisches Museum.

You'll find a good number of museums and monuments packed into Split. 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 Vienna or Split? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Dining out at restaurants in both Vienna and Split can be an enjoyable experience.

Vienna has a huge number of terrific restaurants. The city's cuisine has been influenced by many different flavors. Pastries are ubiquitous so make sure you try the apfelstrudel and kaiserschmarrn. Other common dishes include wiener schnitzel and goulash.

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 Vienna or Split Better for Nightlife?

Split is an unbeatable place for nightlife and partying. Also, Vienna is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its evening party scene.

The nightlife in Split is well established with world renowned clubs and venues. 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.

Vienna has an active nightlife scene for those who seek it out. The music and dance scene is diverse and fun. There are clubs that cater to different crowds and personalities.

Is Vienna or Split Better for Music?

Vienna is terrific for its live music scene. However, Split is not a live music destination.

With so many music venues, you're guaranteed a show any night of the week in Vienna. On the surface, the city seems locked in the past, with ballet dancing and classical concerts filling the evenings. But the city also has a famous jazz scene, as well as techno, hip-hop, and rock all having a strong presence.

Split is not a live music destination.

Is Vienna or Split Better for Resorts?

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

Vienna is not a resort destination.

Is Vienna or Split Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Split is a very popular place for its diving and snorkeling. However, Vienna 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.

Vienna is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Vienna or Split Better for Beaches?

Split is a very popular place for the beache. However, Vienna 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.

Vienna is not a beach destination.

Is Vienna or Split Better for its Old Town?

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

Vienna has a unique history which comes to life in its historic area. Innere Stadt, as it is known, is encircled by Ringstrasse and filled with many shops and cafes. Head to Kärntner Strasse and Graben for popular pedestrian streets.

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 Vienna or Split?

Vienna is terrific for its shopping opportunities. Also, Split is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its shopping areas.

Known for shopping, Vienna draws large crowds to its stores. The city is filled with pedestrian streets that are lined with designer shops, jewelry stores, and art galleries.

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.

Is Vienna or Split Better for Families?

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

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.

You'll find plenty of kid-friendly things to do in Vienna. Families enjoy taking carriage rides or dressing up in costumes at Schönbrunn Palace. The city also has children's museums, parks, and playgrounds where you can let little legs run around.

Is Vienna or Split Better for Couples?

Vienna and Split are both world-class to visit as a couple.

Vienna has so much to offer for a romantic couple's vacation. With it's Baroque architecture and classical concerts, this city is filled with romance. Explore the palaces, take a carriage ride, or enjoy a meal at a nice restaurant.

Split is a great city for couples, as it 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.

Is Vienna or Split Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Split is an unbeatable place for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Vienna is not quite as popular, but is fairly good 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.

Vienna is a good city to visit for backpackers. The city flies under the radar for many backpackers, but those who visit will be rewarded with beautiful buildings, charming cafes, and fun hostels.

Is Vienna or Split Better for Students?

Vienna is terrific for its student-friendly activities. Also, Split is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for students.

Vienna is a very popular place to visit for students. The city is a popular destination for international students who are interested in art, architecture, and music.

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.

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

Vienna is terrific for times when you don't have a car. Also, Split is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its public transit.

The thorough and effecient public transit system of Vienna can take you anywhere. The system includes buses, trains, trams and underground lines.

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 Vienna or Split a more walkable city?

Vienna 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 Vienna. The city center is particularly walkable with pedestrian areas and low traffic zones.

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 Vienna Worth Visiting? and Is Split Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Split or Vienna?

How long in Vienna or Split?

It's fun to spend time in either Vienna or Split. Generally, people tend to spend more time in Vienna due to the larger number of activities and things to do. Usually, 2-5 days is a good amount of time for Vienna, and 2-4 days is enough time in Split.

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

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

In Vienna, many people enjoy the live music and food that this traditional destination offers. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. This city 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.

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.

A weekend in Vienna or Split?

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

Five days in Vienna or Split?

Vienna is a fun place to experience. In Vienna, many people enjoy the shopping and museums that this destination offers. Visiting the old town is also a must. This would be the perfect place to spend five days, as it has just the right amount of activities.

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.

A week in Vienna or Split?

You'll find museums and nightlife around the classical destination of Vienna. 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.

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the active 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.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best 2-Week Tours in Austria, The Best Tours for Seniors to Austria, The Best Walking Tours in Croatia, and The Best Luxury Tours to Croatia.

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

Which is Bigger, Vienna or Split?

Vienna has a larger population, and is about 10 times larger than the population of Split. When comparing the sizes of Vienna 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 Vienna or Split?

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 Vienna or Split in the Summer?

Both Split and Vienna are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Vienna for the music scene and the family-friendly experiences. Also, many visitors come to Split in the summer for the beaches, snorkeling, the city activities, and the family-friendly experiences.

Vienna is cooler than Split in the summer. The daily temperature in Vienna averages around 23°C (73°F) in July, 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 Vienna. Vienna usually receives less sunshine than Split during summer. Vienna gets 255 hours of sunny skies, while Split receives 345 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Vienna usually receives more rain than Split. Vienna gets 63 mm (2.5 in) of rain, while Split receives 28 mm (1.1 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Vienna or Split in the Autumn?

Both Split and Vienna during the autumn are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Vienna in the autumn for the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area. Furthermore, most visitors come to Split for the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene during these months.

In the autumn, Vienna is cooler than Split. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Vienna in October average around 12°C (54°F), and Split averages at about 18°C (64°F).

In Split, it's very sunny this time of the year. In the autumn, Vienna often gets less sunshine than Split. Vienna gets 140 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Split receives 200 hours of full sun.

Vienna usually gets less rain in October than Split. Vienna gets 41 mm (1.6 in) of rain, while Split receives 79 mm (3.1 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Vienna or Split in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Vienna and Split. Most visitors come to Vienna for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months. Furthermore, the winter months attract visitors to Split because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Vienna can be very cold during winter. In January, Vienna is generally much colder than Split. Daily temperatures in Vienna average around 2°C (36°F), and Split fluctuates around 8°C (47°F).

Vienna usually receives less sunshine than Split during winter. Vienna gets 65 hours of sunny skies, while Split receives 128 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Vienna usually receives less rain than Split. Vienna gets 38 mm (1.5 in) of rain, while Split receives 83 mm (3.3 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Vienna or Split in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Vienna as well as Split. The spring months attract visitors to Vienna because of the natural beauty. Additionally, the beaches and the activities around the city are the main draw to Split this time of year.

Vienna is cooler than Split in the spring. The daily temperature in Vienna averages around 13°C (55°F) in April, 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 Vienna this time of the year. In the spring, Vienna often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Split. Vienna gets 202 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Split receives 212 hours of full sun.

Vienna usually gets less rain in April than Split. Vienna gets 51 mm (2 in) of rain, while Split receives 66 mm (2.6 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Split and Vienna