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

Should you visit Alicante or Hvar?

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

Which city is more affordable and which is best for your travel style? If you're trying to figure out where to go next, comparing the travel costs between Alicante and Hvar can help you decide which place is right for you.

Alicante

Alicante is a vibrant, cultural, and colorful city. And you can't forget about the nightlife, food, and beaches.

Hvar

Hvar is a historic, beautiful, and vibrant island. The beauty of this spot is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. And you can't forget about the hiking, shopping, and museums.

Alicante and Hvar: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Alicante or Hvar?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Hvar than Alicante, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Hvar is better known for its nightlife, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, hiking, and impressive beauty, while Alicante is more popular for its museums and historical sights. Hvar is more touristy than Alicante and is known for its wild parties, beautiful buildings, and world class cuisine. Also, Hvar is famous for Hvar Fort. Alicante is well known for its sandy beaches, vibrant nightlife, and authentic restaurants.

How is Alicante different from Hvar?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Alicante 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 Alicante. This port city has a number of cultural and historical sights that are worth checking out. Castillo de Santa Bárbara, Museo Arqueológico Provincial de Alicante, and Basilica de Santa María are among the most well known.

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 Alicante or Hvar? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Local dishes at restaurants are fun to try in both Alicante and Hvar.

Eating is part of the travel experience when you visit Alicante. It's by the sea, so you'll find plenty of seafood. Rice is the main staple for many dishes in town. This is also a vegetable growing region, so many recipes incorporate fresh vegetables. Popular dishes include arroz a banda, arroz con costra, and olleta alicantina.

Hvar has a number of nationally recognized food spots and restaurants. 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.

Is Alicante or Hvar Better for Nightlife?

Hvar is terrific for nightlife and partying. Also, Alicante is still popular, but not quite as popular for its evening party scene.

Hvar is a must-see party destination. 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.

If you're looking for night time activities Alicante has a few options to choose from. For the city's best nightlife, head to El Barrio Antiguo, which is the old district. This is where you'll find the highest concentration of bars and clubs, many of them having live music.

Is Alicante or Hvar Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Hvar is very good for its diving and snorkeling. However, Alicante is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

It's worth going snorkeling or scuba diving in Hvar. 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.

Alicante is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Alicante or Hvar Better for Beaches?

Hvar is well known for the beache. Also, Alicante is still popular, but not quite as popular for the beach.

Hvar is a very popular place to visit for its beaches. 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.

Alicante has a beach worth visiting. If you step away from the touristy areas, you'll find some nice sandy beaches with blue water. Playa la Fustera is northeast of the city and popular with families and couples. If you have a car you can drive to the town of Moraira, which is near several nice beaches as well.

Is Alicante or Hvar Better for its Old Town?

Alicante is a city with good options for its old town. However, Hvar does not have a historic old town.

Many people head to Alicante to see the old town. The old district is filled with charming streets and some interesting museums. There are also a number of good restaurants in the area.

Hvar does not have a historic old town.

Is Alicante or Hvar Better for Hiking?

Hvar is very good for its hiking experiences. However, Alicante is not a hiking destination.

Many people include a hike when visiting Hvar. 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.

Alicante is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Alicante or Hvar?

Shopping is a popular activity in both Hvar and Alicante.

Alicante offers some nice shopping areas. The city is known for its leather goods, but you'll also find international brands and shopping streets with fashion and different European names.

Hvar has a variety of shopping areas worth visiting. 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 Alicante or Hvar Better for Families?

You'll find superb kid-friendly activities in either Alicante or Hvar.

Alicante is a very kid-friendly city. This seaside city has many kid-friendly resorts, long sandy beaches, and adrenaline-filled theme parks. There's the Terra Mitica Park as well as a waterpark - Aqua Natura. Tabarca Island is also well worth a visit.

You'll find plenty of family-friendly things to do in Hvar. 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.

Is Alicante or Hvar Better for Couples?

Both Alicante and Hvar are superb destinations to visit as a couple.

Couples visit Alicante frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. Nice resorts, long sandy beaches, and nearby vineyard tours make this a wonderful place for a couple's getaway. There are good restaurants and nice places where couples can take a stroll, hand in hand.

Hvar is a great city if you're traveling as a couple. 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.

Is Alicante or Hvar Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Hvar is terrific for backpackers. Also, Alicante is still popular, but not quite as popular for backpackers and budget travelers.

Backpackers and budget travelers come from all over the world to visit Hvar. 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.

It's common for backpackers to visit Alicante. There are hostels around town, as well as many budget-friendly hotels, so this is an affordable oceanfront destination for the budget-minded.

Is Alicante or Hvar Better for Students?

Alicante is a city with good options for students. However, Hvar is not popular with students.

Alicante is a good city to visit for students. It's by the water and it's an affordable city, making it a good option for students. The beaches and active nightlife will keep you entertained when you take a break from your studies.

Hvar is not popular with students.

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

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

You'll find some public transit in Alicante, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. There's a comprehensive bus system through the city and region.

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 Alicante or Hvar a more walkable city?

Alicante and Hvar both are notable when exploring on foot.

Alicante is a somewhat walkable place. There are many parts of the city that can be explored on foot.

Hvar is a somewhat walkable city. 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 Alicante Worth Visiting? and Is Hvar Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Hvar or Alicante?

How long in Alicante or Hvar?

It's fun to spend time in either Alicante or Hvar. In our opinion, Hvar has more to see and do, so we recommend spending more time in Hvar than Alicante. However, 2-4 days is a good amount of time to spend in either destination.

Couples should spend more time in Hvar than Alicante. 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 Alicante 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.

One day in Alicante or Hvar?

Visitors enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the destination of Alicante. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything.

The beautiful island of Hvar offers museums and nightlife. Most people come for the beaches. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

A weekend in Alicante or Hvar?

Alicante 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 popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have a weekend, this island makes for a great vacation. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Hvar, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Five days in Alicante or Hvar?

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

Hvar is a popular choice for travelers. It's no surprise that nightlife is why people visit. Five days 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. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

A week in Alicante or Hvar?

The cultural city of Alicante 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.

Hvar is a great place to explore. It's no surprise that nightlife is why people visit. It's also a great beach destination, too. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. This island offers something for everyone.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best 3-Week Tours in Spain, The Best Bicycle Tours in Spain, The Best One Week (7-Day) Tours in Croatia, and The Best 2-Week Tours in Croatia.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Alicante and Hvar, we can see that Alicante is more expensive. And not only is Hvar much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Hvar would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Hvar and be able to afford a more luxurious travel style by staying in nicer hotels, eating at more expensive restaurants, taking tours, and experiencing more activities. The same level of travel in Alicante would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Alicante than you might in Hvar.

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

Which is Bigger, Alicante or Hvar?

Alicante has a larger population, and is about 90 times larger than the population of Hvar. When comparing the sizes of Alicante 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 Alicante 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 Alicante or Hvar in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Alicante and Hvar. Many travelers come to Alicante for the beaches and the family-friendly experiences. Also, many visitors come to Hvar in the summer for the beaches, snorkeling, the hiking, and the family-friendly experiences.

Alicante is around the same temperature as Hvar in the summer. The daily temperature in Alicante averages around 25°C (77°F) in July, and Hvar fluctuates around 26°C (80°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Hvar this time of the year. In Alicante, it's very sunny this time of the year. Alicante usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Hvar during summer. Alicante gets 341 hours of sunny skies, while Hvar receives 345 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Alicante usually receives less rain than Hvar. Alicante gets 4 mm (0.2 in) of rain, while Hvar receives 28 mm (1.1 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Alicante or Hvar in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Alicante as well as Hvar. Many visitors come to Alicante in the autumn for the shopping scene. Also, most visitors come to Hvar for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area during these months.

In the autumn, Alicante is a little warmer than Hvar. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Alicante in October average around 20°C (68°F), and Hvar averages at about 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 Alicante this time of the year. In the autumn, Alicante often gets more sunshine than Hvar. Alicante gets 225 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Hvar receives 200 hours of full sun.

Alicante usually gets less rain in October than Hvar. Alicante gets 66 mm (2.6 in) of rain, while Hvar receives 79 mm (3.1 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Alicante or Hvar in the Winter?

Both Hvar and Alicante are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Alicante for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months. Also, the winter months attract visitors to Hvar because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

In January, Alicante is generally a little warmer than Hvar. Daily temperatures in Alicante average around 11°C (52°F), and Hvar fluctuates around 8°C (47°F).

Alicante usually receives more sunshine than Hvar during winter. Alicante gets 178 hours of sunny skies, while Hvar receives 128 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Alicante usually receives less rain than Hvar. Alicante gets 20 mm (0.8 in) of rain, while Hvar receives 83 mm (3.3 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Alicante or Hvar in the Spring?

Both Hvar and Alicante during the spring are popular places to visit. The spring months attract visitors to Alicante because of the beaches. Furthermore, the beaches and the natural beauty are the main draw to Hvar this time of year.

Alicante is around the same temperature as Hvar in the spring. The daily temperature in Alicante averages around 16°C (60°F) in April, and Hvar fluctuates around 15°C (59°F).

In Hvar, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Alicante. In the spring, Alicante often gets more sunshine than Hvar. Alicante gets 243 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Hvar receives 212 hours of full sun.

Alicante usually gets less rain in April than Hvar. Alicante gets 34 mm (1.3 in) of rain, while Hvar receives 66 mm (2.6 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Hvar and Alicante