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

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

Bologna

Bologna is a historical, culinary, and beautiful city. 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 food, scuba diving and snorkeling, and beaches.

Bologna and Hvar: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Bologna or Hvar?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Hvar. Although Bologna 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 Bologna is known for its food, historical sights, and shopping. Hvar is more touristy than Bologna and is known for its wild parties, beautiful buildings, and world class cuisine. It is also home to Hvar Fort. Bologna is popular for its Terracota buildings, large international student population, and being the birthplace of Bolognaise pasta.

How is Bologna different from Hvar?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

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

If you're looking for an educational opportunity, there are a decent number of museums and historical sights around Bologna. It has many historical and religious landmarks, active squares, and impressive museums including the Basilica of St. Petronius, St. Stephen Basilica, the Leaning Towers, and the Portico of the Madonna di San Luca.

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 Bologna or Hvar? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Bologna 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 Bologna have been singled out for their culinary prowess. Foodies will appreciate the city's well earned culinary reputation. Some people even consider Bologna to be a food capital in Italy. There are cooking classes and food tours around town, as well as many great restaurants that serve up local dishes. Visitors should try Tagliatelle with Ragu (now famously known around the world as Bolognaise), Tortellini in broth, and Mortadella (salami).

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 Bologna or Hvar Better for Nightlife?

Hvar is a world-class destination for its evening party scene. Also, Bologna is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for nightlife.

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.

Bologna has a large number of nightlife venues. The young population that is filled with international students means that the city has a fun and active nightlife scene. Some of the city's best neighborhoods for nightlife include Centro Storico, where the tourists hang out, the University District, which is perfect for students in their 20s, and Via dell'Indipendenza, which is popular for an upscale evening out.

Is Bologna or Hvar Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

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

Bologna is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Bologna or Hvar Better for Beaches?

Hvar is a well-known place for the beach. However, Bologna 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.

Bologna is not a beach destination.

Is Bologna or Hvar Better for its Old Town?

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

Bologna is an extremely popular place to visit the historic old town area. The old town is filled with Terracota buildings, which give the city its nickname, La Rossa (The Red).

Hvar does not have a historic old town.

Is Bologna or Hvar Better for Hiking?

Hvar is very good for the nearby hiking options. However, Bologna 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.

Bologna is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Bologna or Hvar?

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

Bologna is a popular shopping destination with plenty of stores. The city hosts regular open-air markets where you can pick up local produce or local items. It is among the best shopping destinations in the region. For some of the city's best shopping, head to Piazza Maggiore, Mercato di Mezzo, Mercato delle Erbe, or Via Rizzoli.

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 Bologna or Hvar Better for Families?

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

Bologna is a family-friendly city. There are kid-friendly museums such as Museo Geologico Cappellini and the interactive history museum of Museo della Storia di Bologna. There's even a museum solely dedicated to gelato - Gelato at Carpigiani Museum. If your kids need a bit of time in nature, check out Dulcamara farm or the Botanic Garden. On the weekend you many be able to catch a show at Margherita's Puppet Theatre.

Is Bologna or Hvar Better for Couples?

Hvar is a well-known place for couples. Also, Bologna is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for romance.

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.

Bologna is a nice destination for couples. With beautiful museums, interesting architecture. and lively squares, this is a great city for a couple's holiday. It's filled with romance, but it has less tourist crowds than some of Italy's more popular cities.

Is Bologna or Hvar Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Hvar is a world-class destination for backpackers. Also, Bologna 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.

Bologna is very popular with the backpacker crowd. It's not a popular as some of the other cities in Italy and Europe, but it still has a number of hostels and a good backpacker scene.

Is Bologna or Hvar Better for Students?

Bologna is renowned for students. However, Hvar is not popular with students.

Bologna is a very popular city for students. It's a top study abroad destination in Italy and is home to a few great universities including the well ranked University of Bologna. There are many great activities for students and a variety of fun places to explore.

Hvar is not popular with students.

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

Both Bologna and Hvar offer good public transit options.

Bologna has a few public transit options. There is an efficient and reliable bus system.

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

Is Bologna or Hvar a more walkable city?

Bologna 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.

Bologna is a very walkable city. Most sights are always within a 30 minute walk, and the city itself is very walkable.

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 Bologna Worth Visiting? and Is Hvar Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Hvar or Bologna?

How long in Bologna or Hvar?

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

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

Visitors enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the destination of Bologna. 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, 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 Bologna or Hvar?

Bologna 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.

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 Bologna or Hvar?

You'll find museums and nightlife around the culinary destination of Bologna. This 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.

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 Bologna or Hvar?

The beautiful city of Bologna 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.

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 Italy, The Best Tours for Seniors to Italy, 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 Bologna and Hvar, we can see that Bologna 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 Bologna would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Bologna 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 Bologna Expensive? and Is Hvar Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Bologna or Hvar?

Bologna has a larger population, and is about 100 times larger than the population of Hvar. When comparing the sizes of Bologna 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 Bologna 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 Bologna or Hvar in the Summer?

Both Hvar and Bologna are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Bologna 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, Bologna is generally cooler than Hvar. Daily temperatures in Bologna average around 24°C (75°F), 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 Bologna. Bologna usually receives less sunshine than Hvar during summer. Bologna gets 316 hours of sunny skies, while Hvar receives 345 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Bologna usually receives less rain than Hvar. Bologna gets 23 mm (0.9 in) of rain, while Hvar receives 28 mm (1.1 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Bologna or Hvar in the Autumn?

Both Hvar and Bologna during the autumn are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Bologna in the autumn for the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area. Furthermore, most visitors come to Hvar for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area during these months.

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

In Hvar, it's very sunny this time of the year. In the autumn, Bologna often gets less sunshine than Hvar. Bologna gets 177 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Hvar receives 200 hours of full sun.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Bologna. Bologna usually gets more rain in October than Hvar. Bologna gets 123 mm (4.8 in) of rain, while Hvar receives 79 mm (3.1 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Bologna or Hvar in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Bologna and Hvar. Most visitors come to Bologna for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months. Furthermore, the winter months attract visitors to Hvar because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Bologna can be very cold during winter. In the winter, Bologna is much colder than Hvar. Typically, the winter temperatures in Bologna in January average around 2°C (36°F), and Hvar averages at about 8°C (47°F).

Bologna usually receives less sunshine than Hvar during winter. Bologna gets 105 hours of sunny skies, while Hvar receives 128 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Bologna usually receives less rain than Hvar. Bologna gets 75 mm (3 in) of rain, while Hvar receives 83 mm (3.3 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Bologna or Hvar in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Bologna as well as Hvar. The spring months attract visitors to Bologna because of the natural beauty. Additionally, the beaches and the natural beauty are the main draw to Hvar this time of year.

In April, Bologna is generally cooler than Hvar. Daily temperatures in Bologna average around 13°C (55°F), and Hvar fluctuates around 15°C (59°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Hvar. In the spring, Bologna often gets less sunshine than Hvar. Bologna gets 192 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Hvar receives 212 hours of full sun.

Bologna usually gets more rain in April than Hvar. Bologna gets 79 mm (3.1 in) of rain, while Hvar receives 66 mm (2.6 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Hvar and Bologna