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

Should you visit Bergen or Hvar?

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

Should I visit Bergen or Hvar? This is a common question asked by many travelers. By figuring out which city has activities that align with your interests along with knowing which is more affordable, you'll understand where you can get more bang for your buck. So, let's dive into the details and the data, which all comes from actual travelers.

Bergen

Bergen is a laid back, nostalgic, and friendly city. It's a very nice small town not to be missed. And you can't forget about the nightlife, food, and shopping.

Hvar

Hvar is a party-oriented, historic, and beautiful island. With stunning beauty, it attracts visitors from all around. Other popular activities here include nightlife, food, and scuba diving and snorkeling.

Bergen and Hvar: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Bergen or Hvar?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Hvar. Although Bergen and Hvar are both popular with visitors, Hvar has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Hvar is more popular for its food, nightlife, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, hiking, and impressive beauty, while Bergen is known for its historical sights, shopping, and small town charm. Hvar is more touristy than Bergen and is known for its wild parties, beautiful buildings, and world class cuisine. It is also home to Hvar Fort. Bergen is popular for its breathtaking fjords, classic wooden houses, and surrounding mountain beauty.

How is Bergen different from Hvar?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

For an educational experience, head to a museum or a notable sight in either Bergen or Hvar.

If you're looking for an educational opportunity, there are a decent number of museums and historical sights around Bergen. There are some interesting local museums such as the Hanseatic Museum, the Edvard Grieg Museum, and the KODE Museums.

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.

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

Hvar is notable for its local cuisine and restaurants. Also, Bergen is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its restaurants.

Dining out in Hvar is an experience not to be missed. 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.

There are plenty of up and coming restaurants around Bergen. The city's economy has long been centered around the fish trade and even today you'll find cod, shellfish, trout, and salmon on most menus. Sheep and mutton are also popular. Desserts and coffee are also a big part of the local culture.

Is Bergen or Hvar Better for Nightlife?

Hvar is very popular for its evening party scene. Also, Bergen is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for nightlife.

Hvar is a party destination, and you'll find plenty of activity all night long. 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 Bergen. It's a small city without a huge nightlife district, but there are bars and clubs in Bryggen and Old Bulls Plass. The city has enough students to keep things lively and fun.

Is Bergen or Hvar Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Hvar is a popular place for snorkeling and scuba diving. However, Bergen is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Hvar has a few good snorkeling spots. 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.

Bergen is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Bergen or Hvar Better for Beaches?

Hvar is notable for the beach. However, Bergen is not a beach destination.

Hvar is considered a top beach destination. 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.

Bergen is not a beach destination.

Is Bergen or Hvar Better for its Old Town?

Bergen is a city with good options for its old town. However, Hvar does not have a historic old town.

Many people head to Bergen to see the old town. The wooden buildings and compact streets have a quaint and nostalgic atmosphere.

Hvar does not have a historic old town.

Is Bergen or Hvar Better for Hiking?

Hvar is a popular place for the nearby hiking options. However, Bergen is not a hiking destination.

Hvar is a good destination for hiking. 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.

Bergen is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Bergen or Hvar?

Bergen is notable for its shopping opportunities. Also, Hvar is not as famous, but is still a good island to visit for its shopping areas.

Bergen is a popular shopping destination with plenty of stores. The city center is filled with specialty boutiques as well as larger department stores. Shopping has long been a large part of the economy and you'll enjoy exploring the diversity of retail options.

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 Bergen or Hvar Better for Families?

Kids will enjoy a visit to either Bergen or Hvar.

Bergen is known to be a very family-friendly place to visit. There are some interesting educational opportunities for kids including the Bergen Aquarium, VilVite Science Centre, and Experience Bryggen. Other fun activities include Vannkanten Waterworld and the Fløibanen Funicular.

Hvar is a very family-friendly destination. 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 Bergen or Hvar Better for Couples?

With fun activities for couples, both Bergen and Hvar make for a excellent place to visit.

Bergen is a very popular place to visit for couples. There are many romantic activities near town like swimming in the fjords and walking through the parks. There are also spas and music concerts to enjoy.

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 Bergen or Hvar Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Hvar is very popular for backpackers. Also, Bergen is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit 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.

Bergen is popular with backpackers and budget travelers. There are a few hostels and guesthouses around town where backpackers can meet other travelers.

Is Bergen or Hvar Better for Students?

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

Bergen is a good city to visit for students. It's a very student-friendly city with many activities and a laid back atmosphere. The university facilities are spread out around town and the locals are welcoming and helpful.

Hvar is not popular with students.

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

Bergen is notable for its public transit. Also, Hvar is not as famous, but is still a good island to visit for times when you don't have a car.

Public transit in Bergen can get you to some places easily. For the areas that are outside of the city center, you can take a local bus or the light rail to access them. These services are operated by Skyss.

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

Is Bergen or Hvar a more walkable city?

Bergen 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.

Bergen is a very walkable city. The city center is flat and compact enough that it's fun to explore on foot.

Hvar is a somewhat walkable 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 Bergen Worth Visiting? and Is Hvar Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Hvar or Bergen?

How long in Bergen or Hvar?

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

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

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

Many travelers enjoy the scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping when visiting the destination of Hvar. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

A weekend in Bergen or Hvar?

Bergen 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.

Hvar is a great place to explore. It is common to spend a weekend here. Don't miss the nightlife, as that's what most people do. With all of its activities, you can easily fill a weekend here. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

Five days in Bergen or Hvar?

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

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Hvar. Don't miss the nightlife, as that's what most people do. Most people come for the beaches. Five days may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

A week in Bergen or Hvar?

The nostalgic city of Bergen 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.

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the beautiful destination of Hvar. This island offers a variety of activities to choose from. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

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

When comparing the travel costs between Bergen and Hvar, we can see that Hvar 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 Bergen Expensive? and Is Hvar Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Bergen or Hvar?

Bergen has a larger population, and is about 60 times larger than the population of Hvar. When comparing the sizes of Bergen 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 Bergen 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 Bergen or Hvar in the Summer?

Both Hvar and Bergen are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Bergen in the summer for the small town charm and the family-friendly experiences. Also, most visitors come to Hvar for the beaches, snorkeling, the hiking, and the family-friendly experiences during these months.

In July, Bergen is generally much colder than Hvar. Daily temperatures in Bergen average around 15°C (58°F), and Hvar fluctuates around 26°C (80°F).

It's quite rainy in Bergen. In July, Bergen usually receives more rain than Hvar. Bergen gets 148 mm (5.8 in) of rain, while Hvar receives 28 mm (1.1 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Bergen or Hvar in the Autumn?

Both Hvar and Bergen during the autumn are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Bergen for the shopping scene and the small town atmosphere during these months. Also, the autumn months attract visitors to Hvar because of the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

Bergen is much colder than Hvar in the autumn. The daily temperature in Bergen averages around 9°C (48°F) in October, and Hvar fluctuates around 18°C (64°F).

It rains a lot this time of the year in Bergen. Bergen usually gets more rain in October than Hvar. Bergen gets 271 mm (10.7 in) of rain, while Hvar receives 79 mm (3.1 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Bergen or Hvar in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Bergen and Hvar. The winter months attract visitors to Bergen because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Hvar this time of year.

The weather in Bergen can be very cold. In the winter, Bergen is much colder than Hvar. Typically, the winter temperatures in Bergen in January average around 2°C (35°F), and Hvar averages at about 8°C (47°F).

Bergen gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In January, Bergen usually receives more rain than Hvar. Bergen gets 190 mm (7.5 in) of rain, while Hvar receives 83 mm (3.3 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Bergen or Hvar in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Bergen as well as Hvar. The small town charm are the main draw to Bergen this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Hvar for the beaches and the natural beauty.

In April, Bergen is generally much colder than Hvar. Daily temperatures in Bergen average around 6°C (43°F), and Hvar fluctuates around 15°C (59°F).

Bergen receives a lot of rain in the spring. Bergen usually gets more rain in April than Hvar. Bergen gets 114 mm (4.5 in) of rain, while Hvar receives 66 mm (2.6 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Hvar and Bergen