A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Aegina vs. Hvar for Nightlife, Backpackers, Attractions, and Food

Should you visit Aegina or Hvar?

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

Should I visit Aegina or Hvar? This is a common question asked by many travelers. By figuring out which city has activities that align with your interests along with knowing which is more affordable, you'll understand where you can get more bang for your buck. So, let's dive into the details and the data, which all comes from actual travelers.

Aegina

Aegina is a relaxing, vibrant, and fun island. It's a very nice small town not to be missed. And you can't forget about the nightlife, food, and beaches.

Hvar

Hvar is a party-oriented, historic, and beautiful island. With stunning beauty, it attracts visitors from all around. Other popular activities here include museums, nightlife, and food.

Aegina and Hvar: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Popular beach
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
Things to Consider
  • Less popular with backpackers
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Good scuba and snorkeling destination
  • Popular beach
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Impressive beauty


Is there more to do in Aegina or Hvar?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Hvar. Although Aegina and Hvar are both popular with visitors, Hvar has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Hvar is more popular for its food, nightlife, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, hiking, and impressive beauty, while Aegina is known for its museums and small town charm. Hvar is more touristy than Aegina and is known for its wild parties, beautiful buildings, and world class cuisine. It is also home to Hvar Fort. Aegina is popular for its local pistachio nuts, its nice seaside setting, and its easy access from Athens.

How is Aegina different from Hvar?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Aegina or Hvar?

Aegina
Hvar

Aegina is notable for its sights and museums. Also, Hvar is not as famous, but is still a good island to visit for its museums and history.

You'll find a good number of museums and monuments packed into Aegina. There are several temples on the island such as the Temple of Athena Aphaia and the Temple of Apollo. There's also and Archeological Museum that is nice to visit.

If you're looking for an educational opportunity, there are a decent number of museums and historical sights around Hvar. Wandering around the old town you'll see many historic buildings such as the Cathedral of St. Stephen. You can also visit the nearby Hvar Fort or explore the Franciscan Monastery.


Is the Food Better in Aegina or Hvar? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Aegina
Hvar

Hvar is a great destination for its restaurant scene. Also, Aegina is still popular, but not quite as popular for its local flavors and cuisine.

Dining out in Hvar is an experience not to be missed. It's an island, so you'll find no shortage of seafood in the restaurants. There's fish, crab, lobster, squid, and octopus on the menus around town. Many dishes are prepared with risotto or pasta and you'll find a lot of olive oil and wine.

There are plenty of up and coming restaurants around Aegina. There's a vibrant restaurant scene that includes traditional eateries serving seafood and refreshing ice cream shops where you can cool off with a scoop of your favorite flavor.

Is Aegina or Hvar Better for Nightlife?

Aegina
Hvar

Hvar is an amazing island to visit for its evening party scene. Also, Aegina is still popular, but not quite as popular for nightlife.

Hvar has a colorful and one-of-a-kind nightlife scene. The island has a reputation as a party island, and it's well earned. Most of the activity is found in Hvar Town, particularly between the months of June and September. Young people flock to the island for the all night parties and wild beach bars and clubs.

The nightlife in Aegina has something for everybody. There's a great nightlife scene on the island. Most of the dance clubs are found in Agia Marina and you'll find more relaxing lounges around Aegina Town and other villages on the island.

Is Aegina or Hvar Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Aegina
Hvar

Hvar is a popular place for snorkeling and scuba diving. However, Aegina is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Hvar has a few good snorkeling spots. The water is clear and there are snorkeling day trips that leave from town. This is a great way to get out on the water and glimpse the undersea world.

Aegina is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.


Is Aegina or Hvar Better for Beaches?

Aegina
Hvar

Hvar is a great destination for the beach. Also, Aegina is still popular, but not quite as popular for its beaches.

Hvar is considered a top beach destination. The island has hilly bays and coves that are fun to explore. The best beaches are found to the south and southwest of the island and many are pebbly or gravelly.

Many people head to Aegina to enjoy the beach. While most of the beaches are small and crowded, they do offer a number of tourist facilities such as nearby bars and restaurants, as well as hotels. The most popular beaches on the island are Souvala and Agia Marina.

Is Aegina or Hvar Better for Hiking?

Aegina
Hvar

Hvar is a popular place for its hiking experiences. However, Aegina is not a hiking destination.

Hvar is a good destination for hiking. There are a number of hikes on the island that cater to every skill level and take you through natural areas or past historic sights.

Aegina is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Aegina or Hvar?

Aegina
Hvar

Shopping is a popular activity in both Hvar and Aegina.

Many visitors go to Aegina to go shopping. You'll find the standard souvenir shops around town where you can buy trinkets or other items you may have forgotten.

Plenty of visitors enjoy shopping while in Hvar. In the town you'll find galleries, boutiques, jewelry shops and other beach stores. It's fun to pop in and look at the different items.


Is Aegina or Hvar Better for Families?

Aegina
Hvar

Hvar is a great destination for its family-friendly activities. Also, Aegina is still popular, but not quite as popular for its kid-friendly activities.

Hvar is known to be a very family-friendly place to visit. There are adventure parks, water parks, and other fun activities for kids. There are also beaches where everyone can swim and sea kayaking trips. Hvar Observatory is also a unique and fun place to visit as a family.

Aegina offers lots of family activities. Kids will enjoy the ferry ride from Athens as well as the pirate stories they'll hear throughout their trip. There are places that the whole family can swim and great restaurants with kid-friendly food.

Is Aegina or Hvar Better for Couples?

Aegina
Hvar

Hvar is a great destination for couples. Also, Aegina is still popular, but not quite as popular for romance.

Couples visit Hvar frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. There are some romantic hotels and beautiful beaches that make this a wonderful destination for couples. Anyone who enjoys a coastal setting with clear waters and a variety of water sports will enjoy their time here.

Aegina is a nice destination for couples. Couples will appreciate the beauty and great restaurants that this beautiful island offers. It's a charming day trip from Athens that is filled with impressive historical sights and a nice atmosphere.

Is Aegina or Hvar Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Aegina
Hvar

Hvar is an amazing island to visit for backpackers. Also, Aegina is still popular, but not quite as popular for backpackers and budget travelers.

Hvar is a very popular island to visit for backpackers. The island has long been a popular stop with backpackers who enjoy the affordable prices, abundance of hostels, and active nightlife scene. You'll have no trouble meeting other travelers, particularly during the peak summer months.

Aegina is popular with backpackers and budget travelers. Like most visitors, backpackers can hop on a ferry in Athens and visit the island as a day trip. It makes a nice excursion with many affordable restaurants and fun activities.


Is Aegina or Hvar Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Aegina
Hvar

You'll find somewhat comparable public transit options in both Aegina and Hvar.

You'll find some public transit in Aegina, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. You'll find the central bus station in Aegina Town and there you can catch buses that travel around the island.

While Hvar offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. Buses are operated by Cazmatrans Hva and they travel between the major municipalities.

Is Aegina or Hvar a more walkable city?

Aegina
Hvar

Aegina and Hvar both are good when exploring on foot.

Aegina is a somewhat walkable island. The town is walkable, but to explore elsewhere on the island, it's easiest to have your own vehicle.

Hvar is somewhat walkable. Hvar Town can be explored on foot, but you'll need a vehicle to explore other parts of the island.

For even more information, also check out Is Aegina Worth Visiting? and Is Hvar Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Hvar or Aegina?

How long in Aegina or Hvar?

It's fun to spend time in either Aegina or Hvar. Generally, people tend to spend more time in Hvar due to the larger number of activities and things to do. Usually, 1-2 days is a good amount of time for Aegina, and 2-4 days is enough time in Hvar.

Families should spend more time in Hvar than Aegina. Because of the many family-friendly attractions and fun things to do for kids in Hvar, it's a great place to visit with the whole family.

Couples should spend more time in Hvar than Aegina. You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in Hvar that are perfect for a weekend getaway or a longer couple's trip.

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Hvar than Aegina 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 Hvar.


  • How many days in Aegina or Hvar? Ideal Length of Stay
    Aegina 1-2 
    Hvar 2-4

One day in Aegina or Hvar?

Visitors enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the destination of Aegina. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One day is usually enough time to experience most activities.

Many travelers enjoy the scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping when visiting the destination of Hvar. 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 Aegina or Hvar?

Aegina is a fun place to experience. If you have a weekend, this is a great place to go. A weekend is often enough time to do most activities. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

Hvar 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 Aegina or Hvar?

You'll find museums and nightlife around the vibrant destination of Aegina. This island offers something for everyone. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Hvar. 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 Aegina or Hvar?

The fun island of Aegina offers nightlife and food. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. One week is usually plenty of time to spend here with extra days to spare. With this much time, visitors often visit nearby destinations or take day trips.

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the vibrant destination of Hvar. This island 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 Honeymoon Tours in Greece, The Best Luxury Tours to Greece, The Best One Week (7-Day) Tours in Croatia, and The Best 2-Week Tours in Croatia.


Which place is cheaper, Hvar or Aegina?

These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations.

The average daily cost (per person) in Aegina is €92, while the average daily cost in Hvar is €102. These costs include accommodation (assuming double occupancy, so the traveler is sharing the room), food, transportation, and entertainment. While every person is different, these costs are an average of past travelers in each destination. What follows is a categorical breakdown of travel costs for Aegina and Hvar in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Aegina 43
    Hvar 38
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Aegina 86
    Hvar 76
Compare Hotels in Aegina and Hvar

Looking for a hotel in Aegina or Hvar? Prices vary by location, date, season, and the level of luxury. See below for options and compare which is best for your budget and travel style.

Hotels in Aegina


Hotels in Hvar


Kayak helps you find the best prices for hotels, flights, and rental cars for destinations around the world. Compare prices for multiple destinations when planning your next trip.


Our Analysis
We've analyzed the average and typical hotel prices based on guest reviews, star ratings, and hotel amenities here: Aegina Hotel Prices and Hvar Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Aegina 24
    Hvar 47

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Hvar

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Hvar:

  • Speedboat Transfer from Hvar Town to Split Airport: $535

Is it cheaper to fly into Aegina or Hvar?

Prices for flights to both Hvar and Aegina change regularly based on dates and travel demand. We suggest you find the best prices for your next trip on Kayak, because you can compare the cost of flights across multiple airlines for your prefered dates.





Food
  • Food Meals for one day
    Aegina 34
    Hvar 38

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Hvar

Also, here are some specific examples of food and dining related activities in Hvar.

  • Hvar Charming Abandoned Village Small Group Tour and Local Dinner: $180
  • Hvar Hidden Gems Tour with Lunch or Dinner: $187
  • Hvar Hidden Gems Small Group Half Day Tour with Lunch or Dinner: $202
  • Hvar Abandoned Village Tour with Local Dinner: $214
  • Private Hvar Wine Tasting Tour with Traditional Dinner: $234
  • Food Tour: Traditional Flavours and Food Sampling on Hvar: $262
  • Hvar Small Group Wine Tour and Authentic Dalmatian Dinner: $272
  • The Best of Hvar in a Day with Wine tasting and Local Dinner: $273

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Aegina 13
    Hvar 7.48

Tours and Activities in Hvar

Some specific costs of activities, tours, and entrance tickets for Hvar are as follows:

  • Private Multi-Activity Experience in Adventure Park Hvar Jelsa: $25
  • Walking tour of Hvar with your local guide: $32
  • Pakleni Islands Self-Guided Kayaking Tour: $48
  • Private Half-Day Kayak Experience in Hvar and Pakleni Islands: $49
  • Hvar Island Self-Guided E-Bike Tour: $65
  • Half-day kayak tour from Hvar town: $65
  • Romantic Sunset Sailing Experience On A Comfort Yacht: $70
  • Hvar Self Guided E-bike Tour: $70
  • Experience Romantic Sunset Sailing on a modern 36ft (11m) sail yacht | Hvar: $71
  • Boat Tour at Delfina Hvar: $76
  • Blue cave group tour with swimming and snorkelling from Hvar: $76
  • Sunset tour with a SpeedBoat: $79

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Aegina 8.57
    Hvar 9.18

Sample the Local Flavors in Hvar

Also in Hvar, these are the prices for nightlife and alcohol related activities from various tour providers:

  • Hvar Wine Tasting Experience: $118
  • Hvar Wine tasting small group experience: $131
  • Private Hvar Wine Tasting Tour : $142
  • Wine Tasting Tour: $157


When comparing the travel costs between Aegina and Hvar, we can see that Hvar is more expensive. However, the two cities are actually relatively comparable in price, as the difference is somewhat minimal. Generally, this means that you could travel with generally the same travel style and level of luxury in each place. Since both cities are in Europe, it's no surprise that their costs are relatively close, as many destinations here have somewhat similar travel prices overall.

If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is Aegina Expensive? and Is Hvar Expensive?.


Which is Bigger, Aegina or Hvar?

Aegina has a larger population, and is about 2 times larger than the population of Hvar. When comparing the sizes of Aegina and Hvar, 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 Aegina or Hvar?

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 Aegina or Hvar in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Aegina and Hvar. Many visitors come to Aegina in the summer for the beaches, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences. Furthermore, most visitors come to Hvar for the beaches, snorkeling, the hiking, and the family-friendly experiences during these months.

In July, Aegina is generally around the same temperature as Hvar. Daily temperatures in Aegina average around 27°C (81°F), and Hvar fluctuates around 26°C (80°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Hvar this time of the year. In Aegina, it's very sunny this time of the year. Aegina usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Hvar during summer. Aegina gets 357 hours of sunny skies, while Hvar receives 345 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Aegina usually receives less rain than Hvar. Aegina gets 6 mm (0.2 in) of rain, while Hvar receives 28 mm (1.1 in) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Aegina 27°C (81°F) 
    Hvar 26°C (80°F)

Should I visit Aegina or Hvar in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Aegina as well as Hvar. Most visitors come to Aegina for the shopping scene and the small town atmosphere during these months. Additionally, the autumn months attract visitors to Hvar because of the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

Aegina is around the same temperature as Hvar in the autumn. The daily temperature in Aegina averages around 19°C (67°F) in October, and Hvar fluctuates around 18°C (64°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Hvar. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Aegina this time of the year. In the autumn, Aegina often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Hvar. Aegina gets 206 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Hvar receives 200 hours of full sun.

Aegina usually gets less rain in October than Hvar. Aegina gets 48 mm (1.9 in) of rain, while Hvar receives 79 mm (3.1 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Aegina 19°C (67°F) 
    Hvar 18°C (64°F)

Should I visit Aegina or Hvar in the Winter?

Both Hvar and Aegina are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. The winter months attract visitors to Aegina because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Hvar this time of year.

In the winter, Aegina is a little warmer than Hvar. Typically, the winter temperatures in Aegina in January average around 10°C (51°F), and Hvar averages at about 8°C (47°F).

Aegina usually receives more sunshine than Hvar during winter. Aegina gets 143 hours of sunny skies, while Hvar receives 128 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Aegina usually receives less rain than Hvar. Aegina gets 45 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while Hvar receives 83 mm (3.3 in) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Aegina 10°C (51°F) 
    Hvar 8°C (47°F)

Should I visit Aegina or Hvar in the Spring?

Both Hvar and Aegina during the spring are popular places to visit. The beaches and the small town charm are the main draw to Aegina this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Hvar for the beaches and the natural beauty.

In April, Aegina is generally around the same temperature as Hvar. Daily temperatures in Aegina average around 16°C (60°F), and Hvar fluctuates around 15°C (59°F).

In Hvar, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Aegina. In the spring, Aegina often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Hvar. Aegina gets 226 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Hvar receives 212 hours of full sun.

Aegina usually gets less rain in April than Hvar. Aegina gets 25 mm (1 in) of rain, while Hvar receives 66 mm (2.6 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Aegina 16°C (60°F) 
    Hvar 15°C (59°F)

Typical Weather for Hvar and Aegina

Aegina Hvar
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 10°C (51°F) 45 mm (1.8 in) 8°C (47°F) 83 mm (3.3 in)
Feb 11°C (51°F) 48 mm (1.9 in) 9°C (48°F) 68 mm (2.7 in)
Mar 12°C (54°F) 44 mm (1.7 in) 11°C (52°F) 75 mm (3 in)
Apr 16°C (60°F) 25 mm (1 in) 15°C (59°F) 66 mm (2.6 in)
May 20°C (68°F) 14 mm (0.6 in) 20°C (67°F) 56 mm (2.2 in)
Jun 24°C (76°F) 6 mm (0.2 in) 23°C (74°F) 51 mm (2 in)
Jul 27°C (81°F) 6 mm (0.2 in) 26°C (80°F) 28 mm (1.1 in)
Aug 27°C (81°F) 8 mm (0.3 in) 26°C (79°F) 50 mm (2 in)
Sep 24°C (76°F) 10 mm (0.4 in) 22°C (72°F) 61 mm (2.4 in)
Oct 19°C (67°F) 48 mm (1.9 in) 18°C (64°F) 79 mm (3.1 in)
Nov 16°C (60°F) 51 mm (2 in) 13°C (56°F) 108 mm (4.3 in)
Dec 12°C (54°F) 66 mm (2.6 in) 10°C (49°F) 100 mm (3.9 in)