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

Should you visit Belfast or Hvar?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Belfast 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.

Belfast

Belfast is a under-rated, authentic, and affordable 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 and shopping.

Hvar

Hvar is a beautiful, vibrant, and energetic island. This is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. It's also known for scuba diving and snorkeling, beaches, and hiking.

Belfast and Hvar: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for students
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for food
  • Less popular for nightlife
  • Less popular with couples
  • Less popular with backpackers
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Popular for food and cuisine
  • 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 Belfast or Hvar?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Hvar. Although Belfast and Hvar are popular destinations, Hvar has more sights and attractions for tourists. Hvar is very popular for its museums, food, nightlife, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, hiking, and impressive beauty, while Belfast attracts visitors for its big city activities. Hvar is more touristy than Belfast and is known for its wild parties, beautiful buildings, and world class cuisine. It is also well known for Hvar Fort. Belfast is famous for being the birthplace of the Titanic and the location of the era of the "Troubles".

How is Belfast different from Hvar?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Belfast
Hvar

Hvar is a nice place to visit for its sights and museums. However, Belfast does not have museums and landmarks.

Hvar is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. 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.

Belfast does not have museums and landmarks.


Is the Food Better in Belfast or Hvar? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Belfast
Hvar

Hvar is a well-known place for its local cuisine and restaurants. However, Belfast is not a good city for its restaurants.

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.

You'll find the standard options when it comes to food in Belfast. While many restaurants have moved towards more modern cuisines, there are still places that hold tight to the traditions of the area. Traditional dishes include pasties, full Irish breakfasts, and oysters.

Is Belfast or Hvar Better for Nightlife?

Belfast
Hvar

Hvar is an unbeatable place for nightlife. Also, Belfast is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for nightlife and partying.

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.

With a handful of venues, visitors can find a fairly lively vibe in Belfast. The city has a number of bars and clubs with local DJs or musicians.

Is Belfast or Hvar Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Belfast
Hvar

Hvar is a nice place to visit for the nearby scuba diving and snorkeling. However, Belfast 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.

Belfast is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.


Is Belfast or Hvar Better for Beaches?

Belfast
Hvar

Hvar is a well-known place for its beaches. However, Belfast 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.

Belfast is not a beach destination.

Is Belfast or Hvar Better for Hiking?

Belfast
Hvar

Hvar is a nice place to visit for the nearby hiking options. However, Belfast is not a hiking destination.

Hvar has hiking trails worth exploring. 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.

Belfast is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Belfast or Hvar?

Belfast
Hvar

Both Belfast and Hvar are nice shopping destinations.

Belfast is a great destination for shopping. The main shopping areas in the city are Victoria Square Shopping Centre and CastleCourt.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting 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 Belfast or Hvar Better for Families?

Belfast
Hvar

Hvar is a well-known place for its family-friendly activities. Also, Belfast is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its kid-friendly activities.

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.

Belfast is a family-friendly city. The city has several great kid-friendly museums, a zoo, and a few indoor or outdoor activity centers where you can let kids play and explore.

Is Belfast or Hvar Better for Couples?

Belfast
Hvar

Hvar is a well-known place for romance. However, Belfast is not a good city for its romantic activities.

Hvar is a very popular place to visit for couples. 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.

Most people don't think of Belfast as a couple's destination. There are gardens and parks to explore, several nice hotels with spas, and an Observatory on the 23rd floor of the Grand Central Hotel.

Is Belfast or Hvar Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Belfast
Hvar

Hvar is an unbeatable place for backpackers. However, Belfast is not a good city for backpackers and budget travelers.

Hvar is a mecca for backpackers and 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.

Belfast is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. It's a reasonably affordable destination with a few hostels to choose from, but most backpackers don't make their way to this city.


Is Belfast or Hvar Better for Students?

Belfast
Hvar

Belfast is a city with good options for students. However, Hvar is not popular with students.

Belfast is a good city to visit for students. The city's affordability has made it a popular option for international students headed to the area.

Hvar is not popular with students.

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

Belfast
Hvar

Hvar is a nice place to visit for its public transit. However, Belfast is not a good city 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 Belfast. There is a bus service in the city.

Is Belfast or Hvar a more walkable city?

Belfast
Hvar

Belfast and Hvar both are nice when exploring on foot.

Belfast is somewhat walkable.

Hvar is a somewhat walkable place. 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 Belfast Worth Visiting? and Is Hvar Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Hvar or Belfast?

How long in Belfast or Hvar?

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

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

One day in Belfast or Hvar?

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

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 Belfast or Hvar?

Belfast is a fun place to experience. 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.

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 Belfast or Hvar?

You'll find shopping and nightlife around the authentic destination of Belfast. This city offers something for everyone. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

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 Belfast or Hvar?

The under-rated city of Belfast offers nightlife and shopping. 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 The Best Budget Tours to United Kingdom, The Best Tours for Seniors to United Kingdom, The Best One Week (7-Day) Tours in Croatia, and The Best 2-Week Tours in Croatia.


Which place is cheaper, Hvar or Belfast?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Belfast is £133, while the average daily cost in Hvar is £88. 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 Belfast and Hvar in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Belfast £68
    Hvar £33
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Belfast £136
    Hvar £66
Compare Hotels in Belfast and Hvar

Looking for a hotel in Belfast 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 Belfast


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: Belfast Hotel Prices and Hvar Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Belfast £14
    Hvar £41

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Belfast

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Belfast:

  • Belfast Accommodation to Belfast City Airport (BHD) - Departure Private Transfer: $23
  • Belfast City Airport (BHD) to Holywood Accommodation - Arrival Private Transfer: $23
  • Belfast City Airport (BHD) to Bangor Accommodation - Arrival Private Transfer: $27
  • Belfast International Airport (BFS) to Belfast City - Arrival Private Transfer: $27
  • Belfast City to Belfast International Airport (BFS) - Departure Private Transfer: $27
  • Belfast City Airport (BHD) to Lisburn Accommodation - Arrival Private Transfer: $27
  • Private Belfast Arrival Transfer- Belfast City Airport to Belfast Hotel / Accomm: $44
  • Private Departure Transfer: Hotel to Belfast Airport: $44
  • Private Transfer from Belfast City Airport (BHD) to Crawfordsburn: $50
  • Belfast City Airport (BHD) to Bangor Accommodation - Roundtrip Private Transfer: $54
  • Belfast City Airport (BHD) to Lisburn Accommodation - Roundtrip Private Transfer: $55
  • Private Transfer from Belfast City Airport (BHD) to Groomsport: $57

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 Belfast or Hvar?

Prices for flights to both Hvar and Belfast 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
    Belfast £51
    Hvar £33

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Belfast

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

  • Guided Craft Beer and Street Food Tour: $81
  • Belfast Walking Food Tour With Secret Food Tours: $108

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.
    Belfast £18
    Hvar £6.46
Typical Entertainment Prices in Belfast

Some typical examples of activities, tours, and entrance ticket prices in Belfast are as follows:


  • Movie Tickets
    £8.00

Tours and Activities in Belfast

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

  • Belfast’s Titanic Quarter: A Self-Guided Audio Tour: $5.00
  • Belfast's Iconic Sites: A Self-Guided Audio Tour: $6.47
  • Museum Ticket: $6.90
  • Hillsborough Castle Gardens Entrance Ticket: $12
  • If Buildings Could Talk Tour Belfast: $15
  • If Buildings Could Talk Tour: $15
  • Crumlin Road Gaol Experience: $18
  • 2.5-Hour Street Murals Tour in Spanish: $19
  • Belfast Tour App, Hidden Gems Game and Big Britain Quiz (1 Day Pass) UK: $19
  • Belfast Murals Political Tour in Spanish: $19
  • Line of Duty Guided Walking Tour: $21
  • Belfast Line of Duty Walking Tour: $22

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
    Belfast £7.86
    Hvar £7.92

Sample the Local Flavors in Belfast

Some specific costs for nightlife related activities in Belfast:

  • Pub Crawl and Bar Walking Tour with Two Drinks: $15
  • Belfast Pub Crawl: $15
  • Explore & Taste: Distillery Tour at Titanic Distillers: $32
  • Belfast Giant's Causeway and Titanic Distillery Whiskey Tour: $69
  • VIP Skip-the Line Titanic Museum and Distillery Tasting Tour: $119

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 Belfast and Hvar, we can see that Belfast 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 Belfast would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Belfast 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 Belfast Expensive? and Is Hvar Expensive?.


Which is Bigger, Belfast or Hvar?

Belfast has a larger population, and is about 70 times larger than the population of Hvar. When comparing the sizes of Belfast 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 Belfast 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 Belfast or Hvar in the Summer?

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

In the summer, Belfast is much colder than Hvar. Typically, the summer temperatures in Belfast in July average around 15°C (59°F), and Hvar averages at about 26°C (80°F).

It's quite sunny in Hvar. Belfast usually receives less sunshine than Hvar during summer. Belfast gets 151 hours of sunny skies, while Hvar receives 345 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Belfast usually receives more rain than Hvar. Belfast gets 70 mm (2.8 in) of rain, while Hvar receives 28 mm (1.1 in) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Belfast 15°C (59°F) 
    Hvar 26°C (80°F)

Should I visit Belfast or Hvar in the Autumn?

Both Hvar and Belfast during the autumn are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Belfast for the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene. Furthermore, many visitors come to Hvar in the autumn for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

In October, Belfast is generally much colder than Hvar. Daily temperatures in Belfast average around 9°C (48°F), and Hvar fluctuates around 18°C (64°F).

In Hvar, it's very sunny this time of the year. In the autumn, Belfast often gets less sunshine than Hvar. Belfast gets 92 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Hvar receives 200 hours of full sun.

Belfast usually gets more rain in October than Hvar. Belfast gets 90 mm (3.5 in) of rain, while Hvar receives 79 mm (3.1 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Belfast 9°C (48°F) 
    Hvar 18°C (64°F)

Should I visit Belfast or Hvar in the Winter?

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

Belfast can get quite cold in the winter. Belfast is much colder than Hvar in the winter. The daily temperature in Belfast averages around 4°C (39°F) in January, and Hvar fluctuates around 8°C (47°F).

Belfast usually receives less sunshine than Hvar during winter. Belfast gets 50 hours of sunny skies, while Hvar receives 128 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Belfast usually receives around the same amount of rain as Hvar. Belfast gets 80 mm (3.1 in) of rain, while Hvar receives 83 mm (3.3 in) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Belfast 4°C (39°F) 
    Hvar 8°C (47°F)

Should I visit Belfast or Hvar in the Spring?

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

In the spring, Belfast is much colder than Hvar. Typically, the spring temperatures in Belfast in April average around 8°C (46°F), and Hvar averages at about 15°C (59°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Hvar. In the spring, Belfast often gets less sunshine than Hvar. Belfast gets 150 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Hvar receives 212 hours of full sun.

Belfast usually gets less rain in April than Hvar. Belfast gets 50 mm (2 in) of rain, while Hvar receives 66 mm (2.6 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Belfast 8°C (46°F) 
    Hvar 15°C (59°F)

Typical Weather for Hvar and Belfast

Belfast Hvar
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 4°C (39°F) 80 mm (3.1 in) 8°C (47°F) 83 mm (3.3 in)
Feb 4°C (39°F) 60 mm (2.4 in) 9°C (48°F) 68 mm (2.7 in)
Mar 6°C (43°F) 80 mm (3.1 in) 11°C (52°F) 75 mm (3 in)
Apr 8°C (46°F) 50 mm (2 in) 15°C (59°F) 66 mm (2.6 in)
May 11°C (52°F) 50 mm (2 in) 20°C (67°F) 56 mm (2.2 in)
Jun 13°C (55°F) 70 mm (2.8 in) 23°C (74°F) 51 mm (2 in)
Jul 15°C (59°F) 70 mm (2.8 in) 26°C (80°F) 28 mm (1.1 in)
Aug 15°C (59°F) 80 mm (3.1 in) 26°C (79°F) 50 mm (2 in)
Sep 12°C (54°F) 80 mm (3.1 in) 22°C (72°F) 61 mm (2.4 in)
Oct 9°C (48°F) 90 mm (3.5 in) 18°C (64°F) 79 mm (3.1 in)
Nov 7°C (45°F) 80 mm (3.1 in) 13°C (56°F) 108 mm (4.3 in)
Dec 5°C (41°F) 80 mm (3.1 in) 10°C (49°F) 100 mm (3.9 in)