A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Baden-Baden vs. Hvar for Food, Nightlife, Backpackers, and Families

Should you visit Baden-Baden or Hvar?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Baden-Baden 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.

Baden-Baden

Baden-Baden is a nature-oriented, peaceful, and historic spa town. It's a beautiful place to visit, too. And you can't forget about the nightlife, food, and hiking.

Hvar

Hvar is a beautiful, vibrant, and energetic island. The beauty of this spot is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. And you can't forget about the food, scuba diving and snorkeling, and beaches.

Baden-Baden and Hvar: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for nightlife
  • 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 Baden-Baden or Hvar?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Hvar than Baden-Baden, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Hvar is better known for its nightlife, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, and impressive beauty, while Baden-Baden is more popular for its food. Hvar is more touristy than Baden-Baden and is known for its wild parties, beautiful buildings, and world class cuisine. Also, Hvar is famous for Hvar Fort. Baden-Baden is well known for its many thermal baths, spas and wellness centers, as well as its cultural venues and festivals.

How is Baden-Baden different from Hvar?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Baden-Baden or Hvar?

Baden-Baden
Hvar

Plenty of people visit the notable sights and museums in both Baden-Baden and Hvar.

Baden-Baden offers a variety of museums and landmarks to choose from. The spa town has many places worth visiting including the Friedrichsbad and Caracalla Baths, the Museum Frieder Burda, and Altes Schloss Hohenbaden.

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 Baden-Baden or Hvar? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Baden-Baden
Hvar

Baden-Baden is renowned for its local cuisine and restaurants. Also, Hvar is not as famous, but is still a good island to visit for its restaurants.

Many restaurants in Baden-Baden have been singled out for their culinary prowess. There are Michelin starred restaurants and many opportunities to sip wine and sample local cuisine. Many consider the Baden cuisine to be among the best in Germany. You'll find wine, sausages, game meat, poultry, and more. Make sure you try the Rehrücken Baden-Baden (Roe Deer), Käsespätzle (cheese spatzle), and Schäufele (pig's shoulder).

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 Baden-Baden or Hvar Better for Nightlife?

Baden-Baden
Hvar

Hvar is a world-class destination for nightlife and partying. Also, Baden-Baden is not as famous, but is still a good spa town to visit for its evening party scene.

People head to Hvar just to party. 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.

With a handful of venues, visitors can find a fairly lively vibe in Baden-Baden. There are trendy, upscale bars and many fine dining opportunities. There's also a casino and a club in town.

Is Baden-Baden or Hvar Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Baden-Baden
Hvar

Hvar is a nice place to visit for its diving and snorkeling. However, Baden-Baden is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Hvar has a few areas where visitors often go scuba diving or snorkeling. 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.

Baden-Baden is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.


Is Baden-Baden or Hvar Better for Beaches?

Baden-Baden
Hvar

Hvar is a well-known place for the beache. However, Baden-Baden is not a beach destination.

You'll have a great beach vacation in Hvar. 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.

Baden-Baden is not a beach destination.

Is Baden-Baden or Hvar Better for Hiking?

Baden-Baden
Hvar

Baden-Baden and Hvar are both places where visitors can find notable hiking trails.

Baden-Baden has hiking trails worth exploring. Located near the Black Forest, you'll find a number of great hikes and walking trails just outside of town.

Plenty of visitors go hiking around 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.

Is the Shopping Better in Baden-Baden or Hvar?

Baden-Baden
Hvar

Both Baden-Baden and Hvar are notable shopping destinations.

Baden-Baden offers some nice shopping areas. The city is filled with boutiques that sell jewelry, chocolate, designer fashion, and fine wine. There are several pedestrian shopping streets including the popular Lange-Strasse.

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 Baden-Baden or Hvar Better for Families?

Baden-Baden
Hvar

Baden-Baden and Hvar are both high quality destinations for the whole family.

Baden-Baden is a very kid-friendly spa town. There are plenty of opportunities to get into nature with hikes and wildlife reserves. There's also a funicular and castles to explore as well as several kid-friendly museums.

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 Baden-Baden or Hvar Better for Couples?

Baden-Baden
Hvar

Baden-Baden and Hvar are both high quality to visit as a couple.

Baden-Baden is a very popular place to visit for couples. It's a spa town, so there are thermal baths that couples can enjoy. There are also many gardens and walks through the countryside. The old town is picturesque and the castles are fun to explore.

Hvar makes for a fun place to visit for 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 Baden-Baden or Hvar Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Baden-Baden
Hvar

Hvar is a world-class destination for backpackers. However, Baden-Baden is not a good spa town 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.

Baden-Baden is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. You'll find a hostel or two in town, but most of the tourists aren't backpackers so you may have trouble meeting other like-minded travelers.


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

Baden-Baden
Hvar

Hvar is a nice place to visit for its public transit. However, Baden-Baden is not a good spa town for times when you don't have a car.

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

Public transit is mostly limited in Baden-Baden. There are a number of bus lines that run around town.

Is Baden-Baden or Hvar a more walkable city?

Baden-Baden
Hvar

Baden-Baden and Hvar both are notable when exploring on foot.

Baden-Baden is a somewhat walkable place. It's possible to walk around parts of town, but it's easier to explore with a car.

Hvar is a somewhat walkable spa 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 Baden-Baden Worth Visiting? and Is Hvar Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Hvar or Baden-Baden?

How long in Baden-Baden or Hvar?

It's fun to spend time in either Baden-Baden or Hvar. Generally, people tend to spend more time in Hvar due to the larger number of activities and things to do. Usually, 1-3 days is a good amount of time for Baden-Baden, and 2-4 days is enough time in Hvar.

Families should spend more time in Hvar than Baden-Baden. 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 Baden-Baden. 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 Baden-Baden 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 Baden-Baden or Hvar? Ideal Length of Stay
    Baden-Baden 1-3 
    Hvar 2-4

One day in Baden-Baden or Hvar?

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

Visitors enjoy the scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping when visiting the historic island of Hvar. It's also a great beach destination, too. Most people visit for the nightlife. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.


A weekend in Baden-Baden or Hvar?

Baden-Baden is a fun place to experience. Most people visit for the food. 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.

Visitors enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the historic destination of Hvar. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. This island offers something for everyone. Plenty of people spend a weekend in the area when traveling. If you enjoy all that's offered here, then a weekend is just the right amount of time to spend here.

Five days in Baden-Baden or Hvar?

You'll find museums and nightlife around the nature-oriented destination of Baden-Baden. This spa town offers something for everyone. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

The vibrant island of Hvar offers museums and nightlife. You'll find plenty of activities on the beach. Five days may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel.

A week in Baden-Baden or Hvar?

The nature-oriented spa town of Baden-Baden 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.

Many people enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting Hvar. Anyone can find something fun to do here. Most people come for the beaches. Most people visit for the nightlife. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.


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


Which place is cheaper, Hvar or Baden-Baden?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Baden-Baden is €154, 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 Baden-Baden and Hvar in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Baden-Baden 87
    Hvar 38
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Baden-Baden 174
    Hvar 76
Compare Hotels in Baden-Baden and Hvar

Looking for a hotel in Baden-Baden 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 Baden-Baden


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: Baden-Baden Hotel Prices and Hvar Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Baden-Baden 33
    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 Baden-Baden or Hvar?

Prices for flights to both Hvar and Baden-Baden 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
    Baden-Baden 41
    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
  • The Best of Hvar in a Day with Wine tasting and Local Dinner: $273
  • Hvar Small Group Wine Tour and Authentic Dalmatian Dinner: $273

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Baden-Baden 34
    Hvar 7.48

Tours and Activities in Baden-Baden

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

  • Powerful Women Themed Guided Walking Tour: $15
  • Private Guided KNUMO e-Scooter Tour VIP: $138
  • Family Adventure Stroll: Exploring Baden-Baden’s Treasures: $232
  • Private Walking Tour With A Professional Guide: $248
  • Family Adventure Stroll: Exploring Baden-Baden’s Treasures: $252
  • Romance in Baden-Baden – Private Walking Tour: $252
  • Christmas Market Walking Tour: $254
  • Baden-Baden Yuletide Stroll: Experience the Festive Charm: $359
  • Scenic Baden-Baden Walking Tour: Discovering Historic Charm: $373
  • Baden-Baden Private walking tour: $374
  • Private Walking Tour in Baden Neuweirs Vineyard: $653

Tours and Activities in Hvar

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

  • 1-Hour Battle Archery Game in Hvar Adventure Park: $22
  • 1-Hour Private Paintball Adventure in Park Hvar Jelsa: $23
  • 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
  • Half-day kayak tour from Hvar town: $65
  • Hvar Island Self-Guided E-Bike Tour: $65
  • Private Hvar Island E-Bike Tour: $68
  • Romantic Sunset Sailing Experience On A Comfort Yacht: $70
  • Experience Romantic Sunset Sailing on a modern 36ft (11m) sail yacht | Hvar: $71
  • Private Hvar Walking Tour: $71

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Baden-Baden 12
    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
  • Chocolate and Wine Tasting Small Group Tour from Hvar: $175


When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Baden-Baden and Hvar, we can see that Baden-Baden 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 Baden-Baden would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Baden-Baden 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 Baden-Baden Expensive? and Is Hvar Expensive?.


Which is Bigger, Baden-Baden or Hvar?

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

Both Hvar and Baden-Baden are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. The hiking and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Baden-Baden this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Hvar for the beaches, snorkeling, the hiking, and the family-friendly experiences.

Baden-Baden is cooler than Hvar in the summer. The daily temperature in Baden-Baden averages around 20°C (67°F) in July, and Hvar fluctuates around 26°C (80°F).

It's quite sunny in Hvar. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Baden-Baden. Baden-Baden usually receives less sunshine than Hvar during summer. Baden-Baden gets 231 hours of sunny skies, while Hvar receives 345 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Baden-Baden usually receives more rain than Hvar. Baden-Baden gets 81 mm (3.2 in) of rain, while Hvar receives 28 mm (1.1 in) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Baden-Baden 20°C (67°F) 
    Hvar 26°C (80°F)

Should I visit Baden-Baden or Hvar in the Autumn?

Both Hvar and Baden-Baden during the autumn are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Baden-Baden for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area. Furthermore, 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, Baden-Baden is much colder than Hvar. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Baden-Baden in October average around 11°C (52°F), and Hvar averages at about 18°C (64°F).

In Hvar, it's very sunny this time of the year. In the autumn, Baden-Baden often gets less sunshine than Hvar. Baden-Baden gets 91 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Hvar receives 200 hours of full sun.

Baden-Baden usually gets less rain in October than Hvar. Baden-Baden gets 65 mm (2.6 in) of rain, while Hvar receives 79 mm (3.1 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Baden-Baden 11°C (52°F) 
    Hvar 18°C (64°F)

Should I visit Baden-Baden or Hvar in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Baden-Baden and Hvar. Many visitors come to Baden-Baden in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Furthermore, most visitors come to Hvar for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months.

Baden-Baden can get quite cold in the winter. In January, Baden-Baden is generally much colder than Hvar. Daily temperatures in Baden-Baden average around 2°C (35°F), and Hvar fluctuates around 8°C (47°F).

Baden-Baden usually receives less sunshine than Hvar during winter. Baden-Baden gets 35 hours of sunny skies, while Hvar receives 128 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Baden-Baden usually receives less rain than Hvar. Baden-Baden gets 63 mm (2.5 in) of rain, while Hvar receives 83 mm (3.3 in) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Baden-Baden 2°C (35°F) 
    Hvar 8°C (47°F)

Should I visit Baden-Baden or Hvar in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Baden-Baden as well as Hvar. Most visitors come to Baden-Baden for the natural beauty during these months. Additionally, the spring months attract visitors to Hvar because of the beaches and the natural beauty.

Baden-Baden is cooler than Hvar in the spring. The daily temperature in Baden-Baden averages around 10°C (50°F) in April, and Hvar fluctuates around 15°C (59°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Hvar. In the spring, Baden-Baden often gets less sunshine than Hvar. Baden-Baden gets 154 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Hvar receives 212 hours of full sun.

Baden-Baden usually gets around the same amount of rain in April as Hvar. Baden-Baden gets 70 mm (2.8 in) of rain, while Hvar receives 66 mm (2.6 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Baden-Baden 10°C (50°F) 
    Hvar 15°C (59°F)

Typical Weather for Hvar and Baden-Baden

Baden-Baden Hvar
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 2°C (35°F) 63 mm (2.5 in) 8°C (47°F) 83 mm (3.3 in)
Feb 3°C (38°F) 55 mm (2.2 in) 9°C (48°F) 68 mm (2.7 in)
Mar 7°C (44°F) 60 mm (2.4 in) 11°C (52°F) 75 mm (3 in)
Apr 10°C (50°F) 70 mm (2.8 in) 15°C (59°F) 66 mm (2.6 in)
May 14°C (58°F) 102 mm (4 in) 20°C (67°F) 56 mm (2.2 in)
Jun 18°C (64°F) 109 mm (4.3 in) 23°C (74°F) 51 mm (2 in)
Jul 20°C (67°F) 81 mm (3.2 in) 26°C (80°F) 28 mm (1.1 in)
Aug 19°C (67°F) 91 mm (3.6 in) 26°C (79°F) 50 mm (2 in)
Sep 16°C (61°F) 79 mm (3.1 in) 22°C (72°F) 61 mm (2.4 in)
Oct 11°C (52°F) 65 mm (2.6 in) 18°C (64°F) 79 mm (3.1 in)
Nov 6°C (43°F) 75 mm (3 in) 13°C (56°F) 108 mm (4.3 in)
Dec 3°C (37°F) 71 mm (2.8 in) 10°C (49°F) 100 mm (3.9 in)