If you’re planning a trip to Croatia and can’t decide between Dubrovnik or Split, trust me—you’re not alone. These two coastal cities are often compared, and with good reason. They both sit along the stunning Dalmatian Coast, offer incredible history, mouthwatering food, and some of the most breathtaking sea views in Europe. But despite their similarities, Dubrovnik and Split each have their own unique charm and atmosphere.
I’ve spent time in both cities, and I can honestly say that which one you choose depends on the kind of experience you're looking for. Do you want to lose yourself in a medieval walled city that feels like it’s been lifted from the pages of a fantasy novel? Or are you more drawn to laid-back coastal vibes, Roman ruins, and a city that blends culture with a youthful energy?
In this guide, we’ll walk you through the pros and cons of both Dubrovnik and Split, based on first-hand experience. From must-see sights and nightlife to hidden beaches and transport tips, we’ll help you figure out which city is the better fit for your Croatian adventure—or whether you should try to visit both.
As two of the most popular cities to visit in Croatia, choosing between visiting Dubrovnik or Split can be a tricky task! A lot of things come into play when deciding where to travel, which we've covered in the different sections below.
If you’ve ever watched Game of Thrones, chances are Dubrovnik already feels oddly familiar. As the real-life filming location for King’s Landing, the city’s dramatic stone walls, towering fortresses, and narrow limestone streets truly transport you to another world. But even without its Hollywood fame, Dubrovnik more than holds its own.
Set along Croatia’s southern Adriatic coastline, this UNESCO World Heritage site is known as The Pearl of the Adriatic—and rightly so. Picture-perfect terracotta rooftops spill across the hills, framed by glistening turquoise waters and backed by centuries-old Baroque buildings. It’s romantic, historic, and effortlessly beautiful.
Strolling the iconic city walls at sunset, sipping local wine in a quiet square, or catching views of the Dalmatian coast from Fort Lovrijenac—Dubrovnik is pure magic. But be prepared: during peak summer, it can feel a little crowded thanks to its growing popularity. That said, come in the shoulder season, and you’ll discover a more relaxed, authentic side to the city.
Split might not get quite the same spotlight as Dubrovnik, but that’s actually part of its charm. This vibrant seaside city has a lived-in energy that blends ancient history with a contemporary, local feel. It’s Croatia’s second-largest city and the beating heart of the Dalmatian coast.
What makes Split truly special is how seamlessly it weaves the old with the new. At the centre of it all is Diocletian’s Palace—a sprawling Roman ruin that forms the backbone of the old town. But unlike most ancient ruins, this one’s still very much alive: cafés, bars, and homes are tucked right into the palace walls, making it feel more like a neighbourhood than a museum.
Add to that a stunning waterfront promenade (the Riva), a buzzing food and nightlife scene, and easy access to nearby islands, and you’ve got the recipe for a well-rounded Croatian getaway. Whether you’re sunbathing on Bacvice Beach, hiking up Marjan Hill, or hopping on a ferry to Hvar or Vis, Split offers that perfect mix of culture, coastline, and local flavour.
Let’s start with the obvious—Croatia’s coastline is nothing short of spectacular. Both Split and Dubrovnik are home to aquamarine waters and scenic shores that could rival anywhere in the Mediterranean. But which city truly wins the beach game?
Split has a great variety of beaches, ranging from soft sand to classic Croatian pebbles, and many are just a short stroll or bus ride from the city centre. You’ll find clear, calm waters perfect for swimming and snorkelling, along with plenty of beach bars for that refreshing afternoon cocktail.
Bacvice Beach is the city’s most popular stretch of sand—famous not only for its shallow waters but also for being one of the few sandy beaches in Croatia. It’s lively, social, and great for people-watching. Prefer something more laid-back? Kasjuni Beach and Znjan offer a more relaxed vibe, nestled against pine-covered hillsides with plenty of space to unwind.
Water sports lovers will be in their element here too—kayaking, jet skiing, paddleboarding—you name it. The gentle waves and warm temperatures make it an ideal spot to soak up that Croatian sunshine.
While Dubrovnik is more widely known for its Old Town charm, it doesn’t disappoint when it comes to beaches either. The crystal-clear waters here shimmer beneath ancient city walls, offering a surreal setting to unwind after a day of sightseeing.
Most beaches around Dubrovnik are pebble-based, but they’re pristine and beautifully scenic. Banje Beach, just outside the city walls, is a favourite for its iconic views over Dubrovnik’s rooftops and the nearby island of Lokrum. For something a little more secluded and sandy, head to Šunj Beach on Lopud Island—a postcard-perfect cove that's well worth the short boat ride.
If snorkelling is your thing, Dubrovnik might just edge out Split. The surrounding waters are teeming with sea life, rocky caves, and hidden coves to explore—making it a dream for underwater adventurers.
Split offers a wider variety of easily accessible beaches and a more laid-back beach culture. Dubrovnik, while slightly more limited, wins in the scenic stakes and snorkelling spots. If beaches are your top priority, Split might just have the edge—but Dubrovnik’s dramatic coastal setting is hard to beat.
Croatia is steeped in history, and both Split and Dubrovnik serve it up in spades. Between the stone walls, sun-warmed streets, and centuries-old landmarks, culture lovers are spoilt for choice in either city.
When it comes to cultural prestige, Dubrovnik takes centre stage. Its entire Old Town is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and walking through it truly feels like stepping into a living museum. You’ll wander between Gothic, Renaissance, and Baroque architecture—past monasteries, bell towers, and grand city gates—all still remarkably well preserved.
Dubrovnik is also a hub for the arts. Whether it’s summer festivals, open-air concerts, or classical performances in centuries-old courtyards, there’s often something magical happening as the sun sets over the Adriatic.
And of course, fans of Game of Thrones will have an added appreciation, as many iconic scenes were filmed here—adding a fun, cinematic layer to your explorations.
Split might feel a little grittier than Dubrovnik, but its historic heart is no less impressive. The city grew out of the walls of Diocletian’s Palace, a Roman emperor’s retirement home turned thriving town centre. And the best part? Locals still live, work, and play within its ancient stone corridors, giving Split a unique energy that’s equal parts historic and modern.
The Old Town is a maze of narrow alleyways, hidden courtyards, and lively cafés, all under terracotta rooftops and the watchful gaze of St. Domnius’ bell tower (which you can climb for one of the best views in the city). There’s something incredibly authentic about sipping coffee inside a 1,700-year-old palace—and that’s the magic of Split.
If you’re after a polished, fairy-tale city steeped in grandeur and tradition, Dubrovnik is your go-to. If you prefer living history with a bit more edge and everyday local life mixed in, Split might be the better fit.
If there’s one thing you won’t go hungry for in Croatia, it’s incredible food. Both Split and Dubrovnik offer a culinary experience to remember—especially if you love seafood. But which city really delivers the better foodie scene...?
Split leans a little more traditional when it comes to its cuisine—and that’s a huge part of its charm. Authentic Dalmatian dishes are served in cozy konobas (local taverns), where recipes have been passed down for generations. From fresh-caught grilled fish to pašticada (a rich beef stew), the flavours here are hearty, homegrown, and soul-warming.
But don’t mistake tradition for lack of variety. Split’s food scene is evolving fast, with a growing number of modern bistros, sushi spots, and Italian-inspired eateries popping up around the city. You’ll find gelato that rivals anything in Rome, and Mediterranean fusion menus that balance creativity with coastal simplicity.
There’s something truly special about dining outdoors here—with a glass of local wine in hand, sea breeze on your skin, and the hum of the Riva promenade in the background.
Dubrovnik brings a slightly more refined and international twist to its food scene. Yes, you’ll still find traditional Croatian fare—especially in restaurants tucked away in the quiet alleys south of Stradun—but the city’s upscale reputation has also attracted a wave of inventive, global cuisine.
One thing Dubrovnik does especially well? Oysters. The region around the nearby town of Ston is world-famous for them, and many restaurants in the city serve them fresh and briny, straight from the bay. They’re a must-try, whether you’re slurping them raw or enjoying them grilled with garlic and herbs.
From candlelit dinners overlooking the Adriatic to trendy rooftop cocktails paired with seafood platters, Dubrovnik offers a slightly more luxurious (but often pricier) dining experience.
If you're craving authentic local flavours and a slightly more laid-back dining culture, Split is your best bet. For those who enjoy a mix of tradition and upscale dining—and don’t mind splashing out a bit—Dubrovnik won’t disappoint.
When the sun dips behind the Adriatic, both Split and Dubrovnik transform into lively playgrounds for night owls. But the after-dark vibe in each city is quite different. So if nightlife is on your radar, here’s what you can expect.
Dubrovnik might be known for its historic elegance, but don’t let that fool you—the city knows how to throw a party. The bars that line the harbour offer a relaxed, scenic start to the night—perfect for sipping cocktails as the boats drift out into the horizon.
If you’re up for a bit of romance or something low-key, Stradun and the surrounding lanes are dotted with charming wine bars and atmospheric lounges. Think soft lighting, chilled music, and glasses of rich Dalmatian red.
Later in the evening, you’ll find more upbeat options closer to the city walls. One iconic nightlife experience? Grabbing a drink at Buza Bar, built into the cliffs just outside the Old Town walls, with stunning sea views.
Split definitely leans harder into the party scene. It’s a younger, more energetic crowd, with plenty of places to dance until the early hours. Whether you're into thumping beach clubs, underground raves, or stylish cocktail bars, Split has you covered.
The city’s nightlife stretches from the Old Town to the waterfront and beyond. Central the Club, housed in a repurposed cinema, is a multi-level hotspot for dancing, DJ sets, and late-night mayhem. Meanwhile, Hemingway Bar offers a touch of class with its plush interior and crafted drinks—a perfect start to your evening.
And let’s not forget Split’s beach bars, where flip-flops are encouraged, sunsets come with a soundtrack, and the vibe is effortlessly cool.
Split wins hands-down for a vibrant, high-energy nightlife scene, especially for younger travellers or those looking to dance. Dubrovnik, while more refined, still delivers with atmospheric bars and scenic sunset drinks—perfect for couples or a more chilled-out evening.
Dubrovnik and Split are two of the best places to go in Croatia. Drenched in culture and blessed with jaw-droppingly beautiful shorelines, they are both highly deserving of a place on your bucket list.
If you don’t fancy missing out and are wanting to go to the two cities, you can look at how to rent a car in Dubrovnik or Split and fit both into the one adventure. Alternatively, you can take a bus from Dubrovnik to Split, and vice versa.
No matter how you plan your trip, you are certainly in for a treat when visiting either of these stunning cities.
There are hundreds of wonderful sights waiting to be explored in Dubrovnik and Split. If looking for places to stay during your trip, peruse our range of holiday villas in Dubrovnik and Split or get in touch with our team so they can plan the perfect holiday for you.
