When you're planning a trip to Split, Croatia, it's vital to understand the costs involved to make the most of your budget. From affordable flights with budget airlines like Wizz Air UK and EasyJet to reasonably priced accommodations ranging from budget hostels to mid-range hotels, Split offers a variety of options. You might be surprised at how inexpensive local food and transportation can be, with affordable domestic beers and accessible public transit. But what about activities, entertainment, and those hidden expenses that can add up quickly? Let's investigate how you can make your Split vacation both enjoyable and cost-effective.
Key Takeaways
- Budget flights from the UK to Split can be as low as £30 one-way with airlines like Wizz Air UK and EasyJet.
- Accommodation ranges from €25 per night in budget hostels to €200-350 in high-end hotels, with mid-range options at about €100.
- Public transportation in Split, including buses and trams, costs a few euros per trip, while Uber provides a cost-effective alternative to taxis.
- Reasonable daily expenses for one person in Split are around $116 (824 kuna), with a one-week trip for two people costing approximately $1,630 (11,540 kuna).
- Meals are affordable, with meat dishes costing 60-80 kuna, seafood 120-200 kuna, and domestic beer for as little as 2.3 euros.
Affordable Flight Options
When planning your trip to Split, Croatia, you can find affordable flight options by browsing websites like Skyscanner or CheapFlights.
Direct flights from the UK take around 2 hours 30 minutes and can cost as low as £50 each way. Budget airlines like Wizz Air UK and EasyJet offer some of the most affordable direct flights, with historic prices dropping to £30 for a one-way ticket.
Although direct flights are the fastest, you can also consider airlines like airBaltic, Aegean Airlines, and KLM for slightly higher prices.
To secure the best deals, book well in advance and stay flexible with your travel dates. Split's airport is well-connected, making travel convenient from various European destinations.
Accommodation Costs
Accommodation costs in Split can range widely, with budget hostels starting around €25 per night and high-end hotels reaching €200-350 per night.
If you're looking for a mid-range option, expect to pay about €100 per night for either a hotel or an Airbnb apartment.
Prices in Split are generally higher than in other parts of Croatia. Accommodation in islands, national parks, or other major cities is typically 10-15% cheaper.
Moreover, prices drop considerably during the off-season or shoulder season, making it a good time to visit if you're looking to save money.
Dubrovnik and Split remain the most expensive destinations in the country.
Food and Beverage Prices
In Split, you'll find that food and beverage prices vary considerably depending on the type of cuisine and the dining establishment you choose.
A reasonable meat dish typically costs between 60-80 kuna. If you prefer seafood, expect to pay anywhere from 120-200 kuna.
House wine generally goes for 80-120 kuna per liter. Domestic beer can be enjoyed for as little as 2.3 Euro.
A cappuccino is reasonably priced at around 1 Euro on average.
Whether you're dining in a high-end restaurant or grabbing a quick drink, there are options to suit various budgets in Split.
Transportation Expenses
After savoring the culinary delights of Split, you'll find that getting around the city is both convenient and budget-friendly.
Public transportation, like buses and trams, will only cost you a few euros per trip, making it an affordable option. If you prefer taxis, they're available but generally more expensive than public transport. Moreover, Uber operates in Split, providing a more cost-effective alternative to traditional taxis.
For trips to nearby islands, the ferry to Hvar (Stari Grad) costs around 5 euros one-way.
If you're considering renting a car, expect to pay between 80-120 euros for a four-day rental.
- Bus/Tram: A few euros per trip.
- Ferry to Hvar: Approximately 5 euros one-way.
- Car Rental: 80-120 euros for four days.
Parking Fees
When it comes to parking fees in Split, you'll find that costs vary depending on the location and time of year.
In the city center, metered street parking is around 4 kuna per hour, but expect prices to rise during the tourist season.
Parking garages generally offer a more economical option at 30-50 kuna per day, making them a practical choice if you're staying for an extended period.
City Center Costs
Parking in Split's city center typically costs between 10-15 kuna per hour at public garages and lots.
If you're considering on-street parking, be aware that it's limited and costs around 10 kuna per hour.
For those staying at a hotel or apartment, some accommodations offer private parking, though it usually comes with an extra fee.
Public Garages and Lots: 10-15 kuna per hour.
On-Street Parking in Old Town: 10 kuna per hour, limited availability.
Major Attractions: Parking near places like Diocletian's Palace can cost 30-50 kuna for a few hours.
Always check for parking regulations to avoid fines, especially in the busy city center.
Seasonal Variations
As you wander Split's city center, it's important to be aware that parking fees can vary considerably depending on the season. During the peak tourist months of June to August, you might pay up to 25 kuna per hour in central areas. Conversely, in shoulder seasons, the rate can drop to around 15 kuna per hour. Premium parking lots near major attractions like the Riva promenade and Diocletian's Palace often exceed 50 kuna per hour during busy summer periods. For more affordable options, consider using the Split City Parking app or parking outside the immediate city center, especially during the low season.
| Season | Parking Fee (per hour) |
|---|---|
| High Season | Up to 25 kuna |
| Shoulder Season | Around 15 kuna |
| Premium Areas | Over 50 kuna |
| Near Riva/Palace | Most expensive |
| Low Season | More affordable |
Activity and Entertainment Costs
When planning your activities and entertainment in Split, you'll find a range of options to suit various budgets.
Museum entry fees are quite reasonable, with places like the Mestrovic Gallery costing around €4.
For nightlife and bars, expect moderate prices.
Outdoor adventures such as boat tours to nearby islands can range from €30 to €60 per person.
Museum Entry Fees
Unveiling Split's rich cultural heritage doesn't have to strain your wallet, with museum entry fees ranging from 30 to 40 kuna (around €4-5.50) for most major attractions.
Diocletian's Palace, a UNESCO Global Heritage site, can be traversed for just 30-40 kuna.
Admission to the Cathedral of St. Domnius and its bell tower costs 40 kuna.
The Ethnographic Museum and the Split City Museum charge 40 kuna for adults and 20 kuna for students.
Many museums offer discounted or complimentary admission on certain days or for specific groups.
Nightlife and Bars
After exploring Split's cultural gems, you'll find that the city's nightlife offers a variety of experiences without breaking the bank.
Casual beach bars at Bačvice beach and the Riva promenade charge around 30-50 kuna (4-7 EUR) for cocktails, while upscale clubs have cover charges of 100-150 kuna (13-20 EUR).
Popular nightlife spots also include the old town, where beers and cocktails typically cost 30-50 kuna (4-7 EUR). Entrance fees to popular nightclubs range from 50-100 kuna (7-13 EUR), with VIP tables and bottle service costing considerably more.
Many bars and clubs offer happy hour specials from 5-8 PM, providing discounted drinks and helping you save on nightlife costs.
Outdoor Adventure Prices
Curious about the costs of outdoor adventures in Split? The natural beauty of this Croatian gem doesn't have to deplete your wallet.
As an example, Marjan Hill, a top hiking spot, has entrance fees ranging from 10-15 kuna.
If you're into water sports, kayaking tours along the Adriatic coast usually cost between 200-300 kuna per person.
Prefer a cultural excursion? Visiting Diocletian's Palace and the Cathedral of St. Domnius will set you back about 40-50 kuna.
A quick rundown of some outdoor activity costs:
- Marjan Hill: 10-15 kuna for entrance.
- Kayaking tours: 200-300 kuna per person.
- Diocletian's Palace and Cathedral: 40-50 kuna.
Plan and budget your adventures accordingly!
Daily and Weekly Budgets
When planning your trip to Split, Croatia, it's essential to know that a reasonable daily budget for one person is around $116 (824 kuna). This amount covers accommodation, food, and some activities.
For a one-week vacation for two people, you can expect to spend about $1,630 (11,540 kuna).
For a two-week trip for one person, the estimated cost is approximately $1,630 (11,540 kuna), while the same duration for two people totals around $3,260 (23,080 kuna).
For those thinking of a longer stay, the estimated monthly cost for one person living in Split, excluding rent, is about $3,493 (24,728 kuna).
Money-Saving Tips
To make the most of your budget in Split, take advantage of budget-friendly public transportation options like buses and trams, which typically cost just a few euros per trip. You can also discover free activities to save on entertainment expenses.
Free Activities:
Wander through Marjan Park, the Old Town, and the Riva Harbor.
Off-Season Travel:
Visit during the off-season or shoulder season to find lower accommodation prices.
Affordable Meals:
Opt for inexpensive meal options like burek, pastries, and supermarket take-away food.
