A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Antalya vs. Hvar for Nightlife, Beaches, Backpackers, and Attractions

Should you visit Antalya or Hvar?

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

Should I visit Antalya 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.

Antalya

Antalya is a vibrant, high energy, and relaxing vacation spot. The beauty of this spot is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. This destination also has one of those special and quaint feelings. And you can't forget about the beaches, hiking, and shopping.

Hvar

Hvar is a party-oriented, historic, and beautiful island. With stunning beauty, it attracts visitors from all around. It's also popular because of the museums, nightlife, and food.

Antalya and Hvar: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Antalya or Hvar?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Antalya. Although Antalya and Hvar are both popular with visitors, Antalya has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Antalya is more popular for its museums, music, resorts, beaches, historical sights, hiking, shopping, and quaint atmosphere, while Hvar is known for its nightlife. Antalya is popular for its turquoise waters, hotel lined beaches, and nearby archeological sights. It is also home to Hadrian's Gate. Hvar is popular for its wild parties, beautiful buildings, and world class cuisine.

How is Antalya different from Hvar?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Antalya 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 Antalya. The city combines history with a relaxing resort vacation. Sights in the area include the Antalya Museum and the Yivli Minare.

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 Antalya or Hvar? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Picking the best cuisine and restaurants between Antalya and Hvar can be difficult as they are each excellent in their own way.

Antalya has a number of nationally recognized food spots and restaurants. Food is excellent throughout Turkey and this city is no exception. The local cuisine offers a combination of fresh caught seafood as well as various grilled meats. Local specialties include meatball skewers, kulakli soup, and even lentil ice cream. The traditional Turkish breakfast is also popular, which usually includes hard boiled eggs, cheese, tomatoes, cucumber, olives, and Turkish breads or pastries. It's almost always served with Turkish tea.

With its innovative style combined with traditional elements, Hvar makes for a great culinary experience. 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 Antalya or Hvar Better for Nightlife?

Hvar is an amazing island to visit for its evening party scene. Also, Antalya is not quite as popular, but is fairly good 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.

Antalya is a popular destination for visitors looking to party into the night. The city has an insane nightlife scene with huge glamorous dance clubs that fill to the brink as well as low key bars and pubs that everyone can enjoy.

Is Antalya or Hvar Better for Music?

Antalya is a vacation spot with good options for its live music scene. However, Hvar is not a live music destination.

You'll find some good live music in Antalya. Live music ranges from rock concerts to symphonies as well as a number of local music venues.

Hvar is not a live music destination.

Is Antalya or Hvar Better for Resorts?

Antalya is renowned for its resorts. However, Hvar is not a resort destination.

Antalya is a world class resort vacation destination. The city is famous for its resorts that range from luxury to family-friendly. Some of the most popular resorts in the area include Xanadu Resort Hotel, Susesi, and Lara Barut, but there are many more.

Hvar is not a resort destination.

Is Antalya or Hvar Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

There's good scuba diving or snorkeling available in both Antalya and Hvar.

Antalya has a few good snorkeling spots. Outside of town, in the region of Antalya, you'll find some of the best snorkeling and scuba diving in Turkey.

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.

Is Antalya or Hvar Better for Beaches?

Antalya is renowned for the beache. Also, Hvar is not as famous, but is still a good island to visit for the beach.

Antalya is considered to be a world-class beach destination. Beaches in Antalya are among the best in Turkey. They are sandy with warm water and a number of resorts nearby.

Many people visit Hvar for it's beautiful 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.

Is Antalya or Hvar Better for its Old Town?

Antalya is notable for its old town. However, Hvar does not have a historic old town.

Antalya is an extremely popular place to visit the historic old town area. The city has a beautiful old town area, Kaleiçi, that is known for its narrow streets and historic buildings. The area has many sights including Hadrian's Gate.

Hvar does not have a historic old town.

Is Antalya or Hvar Better for Hiking?

Antalya is notable for the nearby hiking options. Also, Hvar is not as famous, but is still a good island to visit for its hiking trails.

Antalya is a popular spot for hiking. Outside of town you'll find coastal hikes with scenic views as well as trails that wander through historic ruins.

Hvar offers some nice hiking trails. 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.

Is the Shopping Better in Antalya or Hvar?

Antalya is renowned for its shopping opportunities. Also, Hvar is not as famous, but is still a good island to visit for its shopping areas.

The abundance of shops in Antalya make it a world-class shopping destination. Antalya combines modern high end malls with more traditional bazaars. From luxury fashion brands to souvenirs and local trinkets, the area has everything.

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 Antalya or Hvar Better for Families?

Kids will enjoy a visit to either Antalya or Hvar.

You'll find plenty of family-friendly things to do in Antalya. The city has beautiful beaches, historic ruins, and resorts that cater specifically to families. It's a popular family-friendly destination in Turkey.

Hvar is 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.

Is Antalya or Hvar Better for Couples?

With fun activities for couples, both Antalya and Hvar make for a excellent place to visit.

Antalya makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. Antalya is a top-rated honeymoon destination in Turkey. It's beautiful beaches, romantic resorts, and great shopping put it at the top of many couples' list.

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.

Is Antalya or Hvar Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

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

A large number of backpackers visit Hvar, as it is a very popular island for budget travelers. 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.

Backpackers come from all over to visit Antalya. Despite the many resorts in town, there are also budget accommodation options available including hostels. Backpackers appreciate Antalya's impressive old town as well as the area's stunning beaches.

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

Antalya is notable for its public transit. Also, Hvar is not as famous, but is still a good island to visit for times when you don't have a car.

Public transit in Antalya can get you to some places easily. Buses and minibuses will help you get around town.

Hvar has some public transit options. Buses are operated by Cazmatrans Hva and they travel between the major municipalities.

Is Antalya or Hvar a more walkable city?

Antalya and Hvar are good when it comes to walkability.

Antalya is a somewhat walkable vacation spot. The historic area in particular is compact, filled with historic sights, and easy to explore on foot.

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 Antalya Worth Visiting? and Is Hvar Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Hvar or Antalya?

How long in Antalya or Hvar?

It's fun to spend time in either Antalya or Hvar. Generally, people tend to spend more time in Antalya due to the larger number of activities and things to do. Usually, 2-5 days is a good amount of time for Antalya, and 2-4 days is enough time in Hvar.

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

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

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

One day in Antalya or Hvar?

Visitors enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting the destination of Antalya. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything.

In Hvar, you'll find shopping and museums. You'll find plenty of activities on the beach. One reason most visitors come is for the nightlife. This island offers something for everyone. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

A weekend in Antalya or Hvar?

Antalya is a fun place to experience. If you have a weekend, this is a great place to go. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. 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.

In Hvar, you'll find museums and nightlife. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend here is typical. Most people come for the beaches. One reason most visitors come is for the nightlife. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Hvar has to offer.

Five days in Antalya or Hvar?

Visitors enjoy the live music and food when visiting the high energy destination of Antalya. This vacation spot offers something for everyone. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. Plenty of people spend five days in the area when traveling. Five days is often enough time to do most activities.

Hvar is a great place to explore. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. Five days is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

A week in Antalya or Hvar?

The relaxing vacation spot of Antalya offers food and scuba diving and snorkeling. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. 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.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Hvar. Many people enjoy the food and scuba diving and snorkeling when visiting Hvar. One reason most visitors come is for the nightlife. People usually spend lots of time at the beach. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.

For some great organized tour ideas, see Tours for Outdoor and Nature Lovers in Turkey, The Best Anzac Day Tours in Turkey, 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 Antalya and Hvar, we can see that Antalya 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 Antalya would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Antalya 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 Antalya Expensive? and Is Hvar Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Antalya or Hvar?

Antalya has a larger population, and is about 210 times larger than the population of Hvar. When comparing the sizes of Antalya 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 Antalya or Hvar?

Both places have a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. As both cities are in the northern hemisphere, summer is in July and winter is in January.

Should I visit Antalya or Hvar in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Antalya as well as Hvar. Many visitors come to Antalya in the summer for the beaches, snorkeling, the hiking, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences. Also, most visitors come to Hvar for the beaches, snorkeling, the hiking, and the family-friendly experiences during these months.

In July, Antalya is generally around the same temperature as Hvar. Daily temperatures in Antalya average around 28°C (83°F), and Hvar fluctuates around 26°C (80°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Hvar. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Antalya this time of the year. In the summer, Antalya often gets more sunshine than Hvar. Antalya gets 376 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Hvar receives 345 hours of full sun.

Antalya usually gets less rain in July than Hvar. Antalya gets 3 mm (0.1 in) of rain, while Hvar receives 28 mm (1.1 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Antalya or Hvar in the Autumn?

Both Hvar and Antalya are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Antalya for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area during these months. Also, the autumn months attract visitors to Hvar because of the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

Antalya is a little warmer than Hvar in the autumn. The daily temperature in Antalya averages around 21°C (69°F) in October, and Hvar fluctuates around 18°C (64°F).

It's quite sunny in Hvar. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Antalya. Antalya usually receives more sunshine than Hvar during autumn. Antalya gets 251 hours of sunny skies, while Hvar receives 200 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Antalya usually receives less rain than Hvar. Antalya gets 70 mm (2.8 in) of rain, while Hvar receives 79 mm (3.1 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Antalya or Hvar in the Winter?

Both Hvar and Antalya during the winter are popular places to visit. The winter months attract visitors to Antalya because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Furthermore, the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Hvar this time of year.

In the winter, Antalya is a little warmer than Hvar. Typically, the winter temperatures in Antalya in January average around 11°C (51°F), and Hvar averages at about 8°C (47°F).

In the winter, Antalya often gets more sunshine than Hvar. Antalya gets 161 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Hvar receives 128 hours of full sun.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Antalya. Antalya usually gets more rain in January than Hvar. Antalya gets 239 mm (9.4 in) of rain, while Hvar receives 83 mm (3.3 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Antalya or Hvar in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Antalya and Hvar. The beaches and the natural beauty are the main draw to Antalya this time of year. Furthermore, many travelers come to Hvar for the beaches and the natural beauty.

In April, Antalya is generally around the same temperature as Hvar. Daily temperatures in Antalya average around 16°C (62°F), and Hvar fluctuates around 15°C (59°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Hvar this time of the year. In Antalya, it's very sunny this time of the year. Antalya usually receives more sunshine than Hvar during spring. Antalya gets 243 hours of sunny skies, while Hvar receives 212 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Antalya usually receives less rain than Hvar. Antalya gets 46 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while Hvar receives 66 mm (2.6 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Hvar and Antalya