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

Should you visit Arles 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 Arles and Hvar can help you decide which place is right for you.

Arles

Arles is a historic, charming, and compact town. The beauty of this spot is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. And you can't forget about the nightlife, food, and shopping.

Hvar

Hvar is a historic, beautiful, and vibrant island. With stunning beauty, it attracts visitors from all around. Other popular activities here include scuba diving and snorkeling, beaches, and hiking.

Arles and Hvar: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Arles or Hvar?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Hvar. Although Arles and Hvar are both popular with visitors, Hvar has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Hvar is more popular for its nightlife, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, and hiking, while Arles is known for its museums and historical sights. Hvar is more touristy than Arles and is known for its wild parties, beautiful buildings, and world class cuisine. It is also home to Hvar Fort. Arles is popular for its Roman history and its influence over Vincent van Gogh.

How is Arles different from Hvar?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

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

The museums, monuments, and landmarks in Arles are among the most recognizable in the world. It's a small town but it's filled with Roman ruins and remarkable landmarks. Popular sights include L'Amphithéâtre Romain, Les Alyscamps, Cloître Saint-Trophime, and Théâtre Antique.

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 Arles or Hvar? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Dining out at restaurants in both Arles and Hvar can be an enjoyable experience.

Dining out in Arles is an experience not to be missed. The cuisine is heavily influenced by the region's local agriculture. Popular dishes include agriade (beef stew), tellines soup, and fougasse (a local bread).

The food selection at local restaurants is excellent in Hvar. 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 Arles or Hvar Better for Nightlife?

Hvar is an unbeatable place for its evening party scene. Also, Arles is still popular, but not quite as popular for nightlife.

The nightlife in Hvar is well established with world renowned clubs and venues. 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 Arles has a few options to choose from. There are countless bars and pubs where you can enjoy a cold drink and a relaxing night out.

Is Arles or Hvar Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Hvar is very good for snorkeling and scuba diving. However, Arles 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.

Arles is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Arles or Hvar Better for Beaches?

Hvar is well known for the beach. However, Arles is not a beach destination.

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.

Arles is not a beach destination.

Is Arles or Hvar Better for its Old Town?

Arles is renowned for its old town. However, Hvar does not have a historic old town.

The old town of Arles is one of the most recognized in the world. The large old town is filled with Roman ruins and historic sights. There are narrow streets and many interesting places to explore.

Hvar does not have a historic old town.

Is Arles or Hvar Better for Hiking?

Hvar is very good for its hiking experiences. However, Arles 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.

Arles is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Arles or Hvar?

Shopping is a popular activity in both Hvar and Arles.

Many visitors go to Arles to go shopping. There are many boutiques that are filled with local art, crafts, and merchandise.

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 Arles or Hvar Better for Families?

Hvar is well known for its family-friendly activities. However, Arles is not particularly known 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.

For families, Arles is not always the best place to visit. Filled with Roman ruins and beautiful art, this is a great town, but can make for a long day for younger kids.

Is Arles or Hvar Better for Couples?

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

Couples visit Arles frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. Couples who enjoy history, roman ruins, and beautiful art will appreciate a weekend getaway to this town.

Hvar is a great town 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 Arles or Hvar Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Hvar is an unbeatable place for backpackers. However, Arles is not particularly known 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.

Arles is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. There are a couple of hostels and apartments in the area.

Is Arles 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 Arles and Hvar.

You'll find some public transit in Arles, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. There are shuttle buses that run between the city center and the train station, which is less than a kilometer out of town.

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 Arles or Hvar a more walkable city?

Arles is notable for its high level of walkability. Also, Hvar is not as famous, but is still a good island to visit for its ease of walking around.

Arles is a very walkable town. It's a historic walled city that is very walkable.

Hvar is a somewhat walkable town. 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 Arles Worth Visiting? and Is Hvar Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Hvar or Arles?

How long in Arles or Hvar?

It's fun to spend time in either Arles 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 Arles, and 2-4 days is enough time in Hvar.

Families should spend more time in Hvar than Arles. 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 Arles. 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 Arles 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 Arles or Hvar?

Visitors enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the destination of Arles. Visiting the old town is also a must. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One day is usually enough time to experience most activities.

In Hvar, many people enjoy the food and scuba diving and snorkeling that this beautiful destination offers. It's also a great beach destination, too. Lots of people come for the nightlife. This island offers a variety of activities to choose from. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it.

A weekend in Arles or Hvar?

Arles is a fun place to experience. Most people visit for the museums. If you have a weekend, this is a great place to go. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. 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.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Hvar. For many, it makes a great getaway for a weekend. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. This would be the perfect place to spend a weekend, as it has just the right amount of activities. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision.

Five days in Arles or Hvar?

You'll find museums and nightlife around the charming destination of Arles. This town offers something for everyone. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

Hvar is a fun place to experience. Travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the destination of Hvar. Lots of people come for the nightlife. You'll find plenty of activities on the beach. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything.

A week in Arles or Hvar?

The quaint town of Arles offers nightlife and food. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. 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.

You'll find museums and nightlife around the party-oriented destination of Hvar. Most people come for the beaches. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. Lots of people come for the nightlife. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Contiki Tours to France, The Best G Adventures Tours to France, 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 Arles and Hvar, we can see that Arles 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 Arles would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Arles 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 Arles Expensive? and Is Hvar Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Arles or Hvar?

Arles has a larger population, and is about 10 times larger than the population of Hvar. When comparing the sizes of Arles 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 Arles 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 Arles or Hvar in the Summer?

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

In July, Arles is generally cooler than Hvar. Daily temperatures in Arles average around 24°C (75°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 Arles, it's very sunny this time of the year. Arles usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Hvar during summer. Arles gets 354 hours of sunny skies, while Hvar receives 345 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Arles usually receives more rain than Hvar. Arles gets 31 mm (1.2 in) of rain, while Hvar receives 28 mm (1.1 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Arles or Hvar in the Autumn?

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

Arles is cooler than Hvar in the autumn. The daily temperature in Arles averages around 16°C (61°F) in October, and Hvar fluctuates around 18°C (64°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Hvar. In the autumn, Arles often gets less sunshine than Hvar. Arles gets 178 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Hvar receives 200 hours of full sun.

Arles receives a lot of rain in the autumn. Arles usually gets more rain in October than Hvar. Arles gets 130 mm (5.1 in) of rain, while Hvar receives 79 mm (3.1 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Arles or Hvar in the Winter?

Both Hvar and Arles are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Arles 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 the winter, Arles is cooler than Hvar. Typically, the winter temperatures in Arles in January average around 7°C (44°F), and Hvar averages at about 8°C (47°F).

Arles usually receives more sunshine than Hvar during winter. Arles gets 146 hours of sunny skies, while Hvar receives 128 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Arles usually receives less rain than Hvar. Arles gets 67 mm (2.6 in) of rain, while Hvar receives 83 mm (3.3 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Arles or Hvar in the Spring?

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

In April, Arles is generally cooler than Hvar. Daily temperatures in Arles average around 13°C (56°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 Arles. In the spring, Arles often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Hvar. Arles gets 218 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Hvar receives 212 hours of full sun.

Arles usually gets less rain in April than Hvar. Arles gets 57 mm (2.2 in) of rain, while Hvar receives 66 mm (2.6 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Hvar and Arles