A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Aqaba vs. Hvar for Vacations, Tours, and Honeymoons

Should you visit Aqaba or Hvar?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Aqaba or Hvar, this travel comparison, which includes costs, can help. The overall cost of travel is usually a consideration when deciding where to go next, and the cost comparison down below can help you decide based on the average prices from other travelers along with your own travel budget.

Where Should I go: Aqaba or Hvar?

Aqaba

Aqaba is a port city in Jordan, in fact, it is the only port city in the country. This city is located on the Gulf of Aqaba on the Red Sea, which is in the southern part of Jordan. The city is still being developed; many of its facilities and infrastructures are being improved. The population of Aqaba is about 190,000 and the city has been key in developing Jordan's economy via trade and tourism.

Hvar

Hvar is a Croatian island full of mountains, vegetation, beaches, vineyards, shops, restaurants, and also people! Hvar Town is the main city on the island, but there are many other small villages throughout. The best time to visit Hvar is between May and September, although keep in mind it can get busy during this period.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Luxury Tours to Jordan, The Best Budget Tours to Jordan, The Best One Week (7-Day) Tours in Croatia, and The Best 2-Week Tours in Croatia.


Which place is cheaper, Hvar or Aqaba?

These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations. These travel costs come from the actual spending of real travelers.

The average daily cost (per person) in Aqaba is $157, while the average daily cost in Hvar is $234. 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 Aqaba and Hvar in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Aqaba $59
    Hvar $91
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Aqaba $118
    Hvar $182
Compare Hotels in Aqaba and Hvar

Looking for a hotel in Aqaba 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 Aqaba


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: Aqaba Hotel Prices and Hvar Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Aqaba $24
    Hvar $57

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Aqaba

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Aqaba:

  • Transfer From Aqaba Airport to Aqaba City Or TalaBay: $25
  • Private Transfer: Aqaba Hotels to Aqaba Airport: $27
  • Private Transfer from Aqaba Airport to Aqaba City Hotels: $27
  • Aqaba to Aqaba Hussein Airport (AQJ) - Departure Private Transfer: $30
  • Private Transfer from Aqaba Airport to Tala Bay Hotels: $33
  • Aqaba Airport Private Transfer To Aqaba: $35
  • Private Transfer from Aqaba Port to King Hussein Airport (AQJ): $47
  • Private Transfer from Aqaba Cruise Port to Petra hotels: $47
  • Private Transfer from King Hussein Airport (AQJ) to Aqaba Port: $47
  • Private Transfer from Aqaba Cruise Port to Aqaba hotels: $47
  • Private Transfers from Aqaba Inside Jordan and Vice Versa: $47
  • Private Transfer from Aqaba city hotels to Aqaba Cruise Port: $54

Is it cheaper to fly into Aqaba or Hvar?

Prices for flights to both Hvar and Aqaba 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
    Aqaba $73
    Hvar $108

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Aqaba

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

  • Traditional Bedouin Cooking Experience in the Desert: $50
  • Explore Wadi Rum: Jeep Tour, Bed and Breakfast, and Dinner: $80
  • Wadi Rum Full Day Jeep Tour + Overnight in Bedouin Camp & Dinner: $80
  • Wadi Rum Full Day Jeep Tour + Overnight & Dinner in Bedouin Camp: $106
  • Half Day Sunset Tour + Dinner & overnight stay in luxury tents: $243

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Aqaba $54
    Hvar $21

Tours and Activities in Aqaba

Here are a few actual costs in Aqaba for available activities, ticket prices, and tours:

  • Sea Breeze 3 Hours Snorkeling or 2 Hours Sunset Cruise: $24
  • Aqaba Local Tour: $28
  • 2 Hours Morning or Sunset Jeep Tour in Wadi Rum Desert Highlights: $30
  • Private Walking Tour in Aqaba City with Free Meal: $30
  • Glass-Bottom Boat 2-hours Tour and Coral-Reef Viewing from Aqaba: $30
  • Stargazing Adventure in Jordan: $30
  • Aqaba Walking Tour : History ,Culture & Food: $30
  • Aqaba Local Food, Market & Culture Walking Tour: $30
  • Wadi Rum Half-day Jeep Tour incl. sandboard, water & Bedouin tea: $30
  • Half-Day Jeep Tour in Wadi Rum with Sandboarding & Sunset: $33
  • 2 Hour Jeep Tour - Wadi Rum Desert & Canyon: $35
  • Wadi Rum 3 hours sunset Jeep 4x4 Tour: $35

Tours and Activities in Hvar

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

  • Hvar Self Guided Tour of the City Made by a Harbour: $7.99
  • Self-Guided Walking Tour of Hvar’s Historical Old Town: $15
  • 1-Hour Battle Archery Game in Hvar Adventure Park: $23
  • Private Multi-Activity Experience in Adventure Park Hvar Jelsa: $26
  • 1-Hour Private Paintball Adventure in Park Hvar Jelsa: $31
  • Stand Up Paddle school - learn to SUP and make your first SUP tour: $34
  • Sunset Boat Tour with unlimited wine,drinks & Music at Stari Grad: $46
  • Timeless Old Town Walking Tour with Local Guide: $46
  • Private Half-Day Kayak Experience in Hvar and Pakleni Islands: $58
  • Lavender Fields & Villages: Private E-Bike Tour with Swim Stop: $70
  • Experience Romantic Sunset Sailing on a modern 36ft (11m) sail yacht | Hvar: $74
  • Boat Tour at Delfina Hvar: $83

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Aqaba $9.07
    Hvar $22

Sample the Local Flavors in Hvar

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

  • Wine Tasting Round Trip from Hvar Family Winery at a Hilltop: $89
  • Private Hvar Island Bike Tour and Wine Tasting: $112
  • Exclusive Hvar Wine Tour with Scenic Views and Local Wines: $171
  • Private Hvar Wine Tasting Tour: $194
  • Stari Grad Private Tuk Tuk Tour with Wine Tasting: $251
  • The Best of Hvar Small Group with Wine Tasting and Local meal: $291
  • From Split: Private Blue Lagoon & Pakleni with Wine Tasting: $2,567


When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Aqaba and Hvar, we can see that Hvar is more expensive. And not only is Aqaba much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. Since Aqaba is in Middle East and Hvar is in Europe, this is one of the main reasons why the costs are so different, as different regions of the world tend to have overall different travel costs. So, traveling to Aqaba would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Aqaba 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 Hvar would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Hvar than you might in Aqaba.

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


Which is Bigger, Aqaba or Hvar?

Aqaba has a larger population, and is about 30 times larger than the population of Hvar. When comparing the sizes of Aqaba 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 Aqaba or Hvar?

Hvar has a temperate climate with four distinct seasons, but Aqaba experiences a warm climate with fairly sunny weather most of the year.

Should I visit Aqaba or Hvar in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Aqaba and Hvar. Warm weather and sunshine bring visitors to Aqaba year-round. Furthermore, many travelers come to Hvar for the beaches, snorkeling, the hiking, and the family-friendly experiences.

It's very hot in Aqaba this time of the year. Aqaba is a little warmer than Hvar in the summer. The daily temperature in Aqaba averages around 33°C (91°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 Aqaba, it's very sunny this time of the year. Aqaba usually receives more sunshine than Hvar during summer. Aqaba gets 384 hours of sunny skies, while Hvar receives 345 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Aqaba usually receives less rain than Hvar. Aqaba gets 0 mm (0 in) of rain, while Hvar receives 28 mm (1.1 in) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Aqaba 33°C (91°F) 
    Hvar 26°C (80°F)

Should I visit Aqaba or Hvar in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Aqaba as well as Hvar. Aqaba attracts visitors year-round for its warm weather and sunny climate. Additionally, many visitors come to Hvar in the autumn for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

In the autumn, Aqaba is a little warmer than Hvar. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Aqaba in October average around 26°C (79°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 Aqaba this time of the year. In the autumn, Aqaba often gets more sunshine than Hvar. Aqaba gets 295 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Hvar receives 200 hours of full sun.

Aqaba usually gets less rain in October than Hvar. Aqaba gets 1 mm (0 in) of rain, while Hvar receives 79 mm (3.1 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Aqaba 26°C (79°F) 
    Hvar 18°C (64°F)

Should I visit Aqaba or Hvar in the Winter?

Both Hvar and Aqaba are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. The warm climate attracts visitors to Aqaba throughout the year. Also, most visitors come to Hvar for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months.

In January, Aqaba is generally much warmer than Hvar. Daily temperatures in Aqaba average around 14°C (57°F), and Hvar fluctuates around 8°C (47°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Aqaba. Aqaba usually receives more sunshine than Hvar during winter. Aqaba gets 234 hours of sunny skies, while Hvar receives 128 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Aqaba usually receives less rain than Hvar. Aqaba gets 3 mm (0.1 in) of rain, while Hvar receives 83 mm (3.3 in) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Aqaba 14°C (57°F) 
    Hvar 8°C (47°F)

Should I visit Aqaba or Hvar in the Spring?

Both Hvar and Aqaba during the spring are popular places to visit. Plenty of visitors come to Aqaba because of the warm climate and sunshine that lasts throughout the year. Also, the spring months attract visitors to Hvar because of the beaches and the natural beauty.

Aqaba is much warmer than Hvar in the spring. The daily temperature in Aqaba averages around 24°C (75°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 Aqaba. In the spring, Aqaba often gets more sunshine than Hvar. Aqaba gets 282 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Hvar receives 212 hours of full sun.

Aqaba usually gets less rain in April than Hvar. Aqaba gets 1 mm (0 in) of rain, while Hvar receives 66 mm (2.6 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Aqaba 24°C (75°F) 
    Hvar 15°C (59°F)

Typical Weather for Hvar and Aqaba

Aqaba Hvar
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 14°C (57°F) 3 mm (0.1 in) 8°C (47°F) 83 mm (3.3 in)
Feb 16°C (61°F) 1 mm (0 in) 9°C (48°F) 68 mm (2.7 in)
Mar 19°C (66°F) 1 mm (0 in) 11°C (52°F) 75 mm (3 in)
Apr 24°C (75°F) 1 mm (0 in) 15°C (59°F) 66 mm (2.6 in)
May 27°C (81°F) 0 mm (0 in) 20°C (67°F) 56 mm (2.2 in)
Jun 31°C (88°F) 0 mm (0 in) 23°C (74°F) 51 mm (2 in)
Jul 33°C (91°F) 0 mm (0 in) 26°C (80°F) 28 mm (1.1 in)
Aug 33°C (91°F) 0 mm (0 in) 26°C (79°F) 50 mm (2 in)
Sep 31°C (88°F) 0 mm (0 in) 22°C (72°F) 61 mm (2.4 in)
Oct 26°C (79°F) 1 mm (0 in) 18°C (64°F) 79 mm (3.1 in)
Nov 20°C (68°F) 2 mm (0.1 in) 13°C (56°F) 108 mm (4.3 in)
Dec 15°C (59°F) 3 mm (0.1 in) 10°C (49°F) 100 mm (3.9 in)