Ghent
Belgium
Split
Croatia
Ghent
Split
π° Budget
π‘οΈ Safety
Ghent
Ghent is a very safe city with a strong community feel. The large student population means the city is lively but not rough. Violent crime is extremely rare, and petty theft is less common than in Brussels or Antwerp. The city feels safe to walk at all hours.
Split
Split is one of the safest cities on the Mediterranean for tourists. Violent crime is extremely rare. Petty theft can occur in crowded tourist areas during summer, but overall it is very safe.
β Ratings
π€οΈ Weather
Ghent
Ghent shares Bruges' maritime climate β mild year-round but frequently wet. Summers are pleasantly warm without extreme heat, winters are damp and cool. Rain is possible in every season, making layers and waterproofs essential. The city is beautiful in every weather.
Split
Split has a Mediterranean climate with hot, dry summers and mild, wet winters. It enjoys over 2,600 hours of sunshine per year β one of the sunniest cities in Europe.
π Getting Around
Ghent
Ghent's historic center is very walkable, and the city has an excellent tram and bus network operated by De Lijn. Cycling is deeply embedded in Ghent's culture β it's the most common way locals get around. The car-free zone in the city center makes walking and cycling even more pleasant.
Walkability: Ghent's center has one of Belgium's largest car-free zones, making it exceptionally walkable. Sint-Baafsplein to Gravensteen is a 10-minute stroll. The entire medieval core is compact and easily covered on foot. Cobblestones are charming but tough on thin-soled shoes.
Split
Split is a compact city that is best explored on foot. Buses serve the wider area, and ferries connect to the islands. No metro or tram system.
Walkability: Excellent β Split is one of the most walkable cities in Croatia. The old town, Riva, beaches, and Marjan Hill are all interconnected on foot. Only the bus station and airport require transport.
The Verdict
Choose Ghent if...
you want medieval canals and castles with a student-city vibe, plus all of Belgium's beer and chocolate without Bruges crowds
Choose Split if...
you want Diocletian's Palace + Adriatic β Riva promenade, Marjan hill, ferries to Hvar and BraΔ, Krka waterfalls, and the jumping-off point for Dalmatian-coast island hopping