Dubrovnik or Split? Which city suits your travel style better?

February 21, 2025

Croatia is a popular destination in Europe. It offers beautiful cities, an enchanting coastline, and impressive nature. The country is already quite well known, but there are still some quieter and more affordable places. When traveling to Croatia, these two cities are usually high on the list: Dubrovnik and Split: Both have a beautiful old […]

Croatia is a popular destination in Europe. It offers beautiful cities, an enchanting coastline, and impressive nature. The country is already quite well known, but there are still some quieter and more affordable places. When traveling to Croatia, these two cities are usually high on the list:

Dubrovnik and Split: Both have a beautiful old town, both are by the sea, and both have historical sights. So how do you decide which city to visit? Here are a few tips to help you decide.

1. The Vibe

Dubrovnik: Known as the Pearl of the Adriatic, Dubrovnik impresses millions of people every year with its completely preserved medieval town walls, narrow streets, and baroque buildings. The town is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and was a Game of Thrones filming location.

Split: The port city is a nice mixture of modern and ancient. The cultural and historical center is Diocletian’s Palace, a Roman palace. Split is less touristy and more authentically Croatian.

2. The Beaches

Dubrovnik: There are some beautiful beaches in the immediate vicinity of the city, such as Banje Beach or the rocky bays of Lokrum. However, the beaches are often crowded, as Dubrovnik can get very busy.

Split: The beaches around Split, such as Bačvice Beach or Kasjuni Beach, offer more space and are easy to reach from the city. There are also numerous hidden bays and islands in the area around Split.

3. The Area

Dubrovnik: The location of the city is excellent for excursions to Montenegro or Mostar (Bosnia and Herzegovina), and island hopping is also possible. A special excursion destination is the cable car ride to Mount Srđ, which offers a panoramic view of the area.

Split: From Split, you can take beautiful excursions to the Krka Waterfalls or the Plitvice Lakes. Island hopping is also possible from Split.

4. Prices

Dubrovnik: Due to its high popularity, prices for accommodation, restaurants, and activities are higher than in Split.

Split: Split is cheaper in comparison, as it is less focused on tourism. Even in high season, the crowds are more bearable than in Dubrovnik.

Conclusion: Dubrovnik or Split?

Split is perfect for fans of antiquity and history. Those interested in medieval fortresses should choose Dubrovnik.

Split is the better choice for a beach vacation, as there are more and better bathing opportunities. For a chill and cheap destination, Split is your first choice. But don’t forget—there is a reason why so many people visit Dubrovnik.

Do you now know whether you want to visit Dubrovnik or Split? Both cities are beautiful—so it all depends on your travel preferences. The best way? Just visit both!

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