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

Should you visit Bari or Hvar?

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

Which city should you visit? Read on to compare the activities as well as the prices of travel for Bari and Hvar. We'll break down costs for accommodation, food, transportation and more to help you learn more about these two destinations. Then, you can figure out if either of these two places are accessible based on your travel budget, schedule, and interests. So, let's dig into it.

Bari

Bari is a local, cultural, and authentic port city. It's a large city, so you'll find plenty of things to do around town. And you can't forget about the nightlife, food, and beaches.

Hvar

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

Bari and Hvar: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Bari or Hvar?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Bari. Although Bari and Hvar are both popular with visitors, Bari has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Bari is more popular for its museums, food, historical sights, and big city activities, while Hvar is known for its nightlife, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, hiking, and impressive beauty. Hvar is more touristy than Bari and is popular for its wild parties, beautiful buildings, and world class cuisine. Bari is popular for its authentic old town and its role as a ferry port for travelers headed across the Adriatic. It is also home to San Nicola.

How is Bari different from Hvar?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Bari 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 Bari. The city is filled with historical sights and archeological ruins. San Nicola is the main basilica in town and a popular tourist sight. The Castello is also a highlight, as is San Sabino.

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 Bari or Hvar? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Bari 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 Bari have been singled out for their culinary prowess. It's off-the-beaten-path vibe means that you won't find the overpriced tourist restaurants that have taken over more touristy cities. Instead you'll find locally owned pasta shops that cater to the town's residents. You can taste authentic Pugliese cuisine, which is centered around wheat and olive oil. Orecchiette is the local pasta and seafood is one of the most common staples.

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 Bari or Hvar Better for Nightlife?

Hvar is terrific for its evening party scene. Also, Bari is not as popular, but is still a nice port city for nightlife.

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.

Bari offers plenty to do in the evening. The city really comes to life at night with many dance clubs, bars, and other fun venues. There's plenty of live music as well as jazz clubs and other local bars.

Is Bari or Hvar Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Hvar is a good destination for snorkeling and scuba diving. However, Bari is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Grab a mask and fins and explore the underwater scenery 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.

Bari is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Bari or Hvar Better for Beaches?

Hvar is a great island for the beach. Also, Bari is not as popular, but is still a nice port city for its beaches.

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.

Bari is a good option for a beach vacation. There's a sandy beach that you can reach by bus outside of the city center. There are also many great beaches around Puglia if you're willing to take a day trip or travel a bit farther.

Is Bari or Hvar Better for its Old Town?

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

Bari is an extremely popular place to visit the historic old town area. The old town is filled with historic sights, mazelike streets, and great food. It's pedestrian-only and, because Bari is not as popular with tourists, it holds on to its authentic charm.

Hvar does not have a historic old town.

Is Bari or Hvar Better for Hiking?

Hvar is a good destination for hiking. However, Bari is not a hiking destination.

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.

Bari is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Bari or Hvar?

If you're looking to go shopping, Bari and Hvar both offer plenty of good spots.

Bari has a variety of shopping areas worth visiting. You won't find the souvenir shops that you find in more touristy cities, so if you take the time to do some shopping while you're in town, you can enjoy a truly authentic and cultural experience.

Hvar is a great destination for shopping. 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 Bari or Hvar Better for Families?

Both Bari and Hvar are very good family-friendly destinations.

You'll find plenty of family-friendly things to do in Bari. There are historical sites and castles to explore as well as the fun-filled Miragica amusement park. There's also an impressive underground city that will spark the kid's imagination. Other fun activities include visiting the nearby beaches, taking a kayak tour, or wandering around the old town.

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 Bari or Hvar Better for Couples?

Hvar is a great island for couples. Also, Bari is not as popular, but is still a nice port city for romance.

Hvar is a great island 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.

Bari is a nice destination for couples. The old town is filled with mazelike streets and the city has many unique activities that appeal to history buffs and outdoor enthusiasts alike.

Is Bari or Hvar Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Hvar is terrific for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Bari is not as popular, but is still a nice port city 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 Bari. There's plenty of hostels around town and the prices are usually very reasonable. Many backpackers pass through this port city on their way to Greece or other Adriatic destinations.

Is Bari or Hvar Better for Students?

Bari is notable for students. However, Hvar is not popular with students.

Students come from all over to stay in Bari. It's a great student city that offers access to many nearby Mediterranean destinations. There are also a number of historical sights within town that students can visit.

Hvar is not popular with students.

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

Bari and Hvar both offer good public transit to get you around.

While Bari offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. There are buses around town that are operated by the AMTAB.

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

Is Bari or Hvar a more walkable city?

Bari 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.

Bari is a very walkable port city. The old town is pedestrian-only and best explored on foot. It's also about a 20 minute walk from the central train station.

Hvar is a somewhat walkable port 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 Bari Worth Visiting? and Is Hvar Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Hvar or Bari?

How long in Bari or Hvar?

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

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

Couples should spend more time in Hvar than Bari. 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 Bari 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 Bari or Hvar?

Visitors enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the destination of Bari. 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.

Visitors enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the destination of Hvar. People usually spend lots of time at the beach. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything.

A weekend in Bari or Hvar?

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

Hvar is a fun place to experience. Most people visit for the nightlife. If you have a weekend, this is a great place to go. It's also a great beach destination, too. 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.

Five days in Bari or Hvar?

You'll find museums and nightlife around the authentic destination of Bari. This port city 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.

You'll find scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping around the energetic destination of Hvar. This island offers something for everyone. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

A week in Bari or Hvar?

The cultural port city of Bari 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.

The energetic island of Hvar offers shopping and museums. You'll find plenty of activities on the beach. 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.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Historical Tours in Italy, The Best 10-Day Tours in Italy, The Best One Week (7-Day) Tours in Croatia, and The Best 2-Week Tours in Croatia.

When comparing the travel costs between Bari and Hvar, we can see that Bari is more expensive. However, the two cities are actually relatively comparable in price, as the difference is somewhat minimal. Generally, this means that you could travel with generally the same travel style and level of luxury in each place. Since both cities are in Europe, it's no surprise that their costs are relatively close, as many destinations here have somewhat similar travel prices overall.

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

Which is Bigger, Bari or Hvar?

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

Both Hvar and Bari during the summer are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Bari for the beaches, the city activities, and the family-friendly experiences during these months. Furthermore, the summer months attract visitors to Hvar because of the beaches, snorkeling, the hiking, and the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Bari is generally around the same temperature as Hvar. Daily temperatures in Bari average around 25°C (76°F), and Hvar fluctuates around 26°C (80°F).

In Hvar, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Bari. In the summer, Bari often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Hvar. Bari gets 336 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Hvar receives 345 hours of full sun.

Bari usually gets less rain in July than Hvar. Bari gets 9 mm (0.3 in) of rain, while Hvar receives 28 mm (1.1 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Bari or Hvar in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Bari and Hvar. The autumn months attract visitors to Bari because of the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene. Furthermore, the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Hvar this time of year.

Bari is around the same temperature as Hvar in the autumn. The daily temperature in Bari averages around 18°C (65°F) in October, and Hvar fluctuates around 18°C (64°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Hvar this time of the year. Bari usually receives less sunshine than Hvar during autumn. Bari gets 178 hours of sunny skies, while Hvar receives 200 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Bari usually receives less rain than Hvar. Bari gets 70 mm (2.7 in) of rain, while Hvar receives 79 mm (3.1 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Bari or Hvar in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Bari as well as Hvar. The museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Bari this time of year. Additionally, many travelers come to Hvar for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

In the winter, Bari is a little warmer than Hvar. Typically, the winter temperatures in Bari in January average around 10°C (49°F), and Hvar averages at about 8°C (47°F).

In the winter, Bari often gets less sunshine than Hvar. Bari gets 110 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Hvar receives 128 hours of full sun.

Bari usually gets less rain in January than Hvar. Bari gets 62 mm (2.4 in) of rain, while Hvar receives 83 mm (3.3 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Bari or Hvar in the Spring?

Both Hvar and Bari are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Bari for the beaches and the activities around the city. Also, many visitors come to Hvar in the spring for the beaches and the natural beauty.

In April, Bari is generally around the same temperature as Hvar. Daily temperatures in Bari average around 14°C (58°F), and Hvar fluctuates around 15°C (59°F).

It's quite sunny in Hvar. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Bari. Bari usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Hvar during spring. Bari gets 203 hours of sunny skies, while Hvar receives 212 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Bari usually receives less rain than Hvar. Bari gets 32 mm (1.3 in) of rain, while Hvar receives 66 mm (2.6 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Hvar and Bari