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

Should you visit Brescia or Hvar?

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

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

Brescia

Brescia is a under-rated, historic, and undisovered city. It's a beautiful place to visit, too. And you can't forget about the nightlife, food, 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 shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Brescia and Hvar: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for students
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for nightlife
  • Less family-friendly
  • 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 Brescia or Hvar?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Hvar. Although Brescia and Hvar are popular destinations, Hvar has more sights and attractions for tourists. Hvar is very popular for its nightlife, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, hiking, and impressive beauty, while Brescia attracts visitors for its shopping. Hvar is more touristy than Brescia and is known for its wild parties, beautiful buildings, and world class cuisine. It is also well known for Hvar Fort. Brescia is famous for its historic and archeological sights.

How is Brescia different from Hvar?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Brescia
Hvar

Both Brescia and Hvar have nice landmarks and museums for visitors.

Brescia is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. There are some great museums and historic sights around town such as the Museum of Art and History, Tempio Capitolino, the Roman Theater, and Duomo Nuovo.

Hvar offers a variety of museums and landmarks to choose from. 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 Brescia or Hvar? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Brescia
Hvar

There are opportunities to sample the local cuisine at high quality restaurants in both Brescia and Hvar.

With its innovative style combined with traditional elements, Brescia makes for a great culinary experience. Much of the cuisine has its roots in peasant recipes, but many have been incorporated into fine dining and specialty experiences. The dishes come from the countryside and use many local ingredients. Bigoi Col Pestöm (a local pasta), Casoncelli Alla Bresciana (stuffed pasta), and polenta are all favorites in the area.

Hvar has a huge number of terrific 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 Brescia or Hvar Better for Nightlife?

Brescia
Hvar

Hvar is renowned for nightlife. Also, Brescia is still popular, but not quite as popular for nightlife and partying.

Hvar is a destination that you simply have to visit at least once for nightlife. 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.

If you're looking for night time activities Brescia has a few options to choose from. The city has a number of clubs and bars that make for a fun night out.

Is Brescia or Hvar Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Brescia
Hvar

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

Brescia is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.


Is Brescia or Hvar Better for Beaches?

Brescia
Hvar

Hvar is well known for its beaches. However, Brescia 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.

Brescia is not a beach destination.

Is Brescia or Hvar Better for Hiking?

Brescia
Hvar

Hvar is a nice place to visit for its hiking experiences. However, Brescia 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.

Brescia is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Brescia or Hvar?

Brescia
Hvar

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

Brescia is a popular shopping destination with plenty of stores. It's a small city, but there are a number of fashion brands found around town. Via Gramsci, Corso Magenta, Via Mazzini, and Via X Giornate are among the best shopping streets.

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 Brescia or Hvar Better for Families?

Brescia
Hvar

Hvar is well known for its family-friendly activities. However, Brescia is not particularly known 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.

For families, Brescia is not always the best place to visit. There are several parks and swimming pools that the kids will enjoy as well as a castle and lots of archeology.

Is Brescia or Hvar Better for Couples?

Brescia
Hvar

Hvar is well known for romance. Also, Brescia is still popular, but not quite as popular for its romantic activities.

Couples visit Hvar frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. 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.

Brescia makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. It's location near Lake Garda and its rich history and plethora of archeological sites make this a nice destination for couples.

Is Brescia or Hvar Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Brescia
Hvar

Hvar is renowned for backpackers. However, Brescia is not particularly known 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.

Brescia is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. It's not a particularly popular backpacker destination but there are some affordable guesthouses.


Is Brescia or Hvar Better for Students?

Brescia
Hvar

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

Brescia is a good city to visit for students. This is an affordable and interesting city for students. It's also in a beautiful setting, which makes for a nice experience.

Hvar is not popular with students.

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

Brescia
Hvar

You'll find somewhat comparable public transit options in both Brescia and Hvar.

You'll find some public transit in Brescia, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. There are buses and light rail to help you get around town.

While Hvar offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. Buses are operated by Cazmatrans Hva and they travel between the major municipalities.

Is Brescia or Hvar a more walkable city?

Brescia
Hvar

Brescia and Hvar both are nice when exploring on foot.

Brescia is somewhat walkable. Parts of the city are easy to walk around.

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 Brescia Worth Visiting? and Is Hvar Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Hvar or Brescia?

How long in Brescia or Hvar?

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

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

One day in Brescia or Hvar?

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

Brescia 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 Brescia or Hvar?

You'll find museums and nightlife around the historic destination of Brescia. 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 Brescia or Hvar?

The undisovered city of Brescia 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.

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 Sightseeing Tours in Italy, The Best Vineyard & Wine Tours in Italy, The Best One Week (7-Day) Tours in Croatia, and The Best 2-Week Tours in Croatia.


Which place is cheaper, Hvar or Brescia?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Brescia is €144, 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 Brescia and Hvar in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Brescia 75
    Hvar 38
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Brescia 150
    Hvar 76
Compare Hotels in Brescia and Hvar

Looking for a hotel in Brescia 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 Brescia


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: Brescia Hotel Prices and Hvar Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Brescia 19
    Hvar 47

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Brescia

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Brescia:

  • Lake Garda Hills Wine Tasting, Picnic in a vineyard and Transfer: $218

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 Brescia or Hvar?

Prices for flights to both Hvar and Brescia 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
    Brescia 47
    Hvar 38
Typical Food Prices in Brescia

Below are a few samples from actual travelers for food and meal costs in Brescia:


  • Dinner at Pizzaria (for 2)
    23

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Brescia

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

  • Wine Tasting and Dinner/Lunch or Aperitivo in Franciacorta Winery: $32
  • 3 Hour Private Italian Tradition Cooking Class in Brescia: $76
  • Dining Experience at a local's Home in Brescia with Show Cooking: $93
  • Dining Experience at a local's Home in Desenzano del Garda with Show Cooking: $93
  • Cooking class in a garden: handmade pasta: $113
  • Private Cooking Class at a Cesarina's Home in Desenzano del Garda: $158
  • Private Cooking Class at a Cesarina's Home in Brescia: $158

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.
    Brescia 31
    Hvar 7.48

Tours and Activities in Brescia

Here are a few actual costs in Brescia for available activities, ticket prices, and tours:

  • Brescia Walking Tour with Audio and Written Guide by a Local: $4.19
  • Digital Guide made by a Local for your walking tour: $6.42
  • Guided Tour in Lugana DOP - 3 wines from Perla del Garda: $33
  • Sirmione Sunset Tour: $38
  • Desenzano Sunset Walking and Boat Tour with a Drink On Board: $57
  • 3 Hours Walking Tour with a Drink in Brescia Italy: $71
  • Italy most underrated city:Brescia-Walking tour with a drink: $74
  • Photographic tour at sunset on Lake Garda: $78
  • Canyoning "Gumpenfever" - beginner Canyoningtour for everyone: $84
  • Lake Cruise (visit Torri & Gargnano): $91
  • Desenzano e-bike tour: $98
  • Brescia Private Walking Tour: $114

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
    Brescia 23
    Hvar 9.18

Sample the Local Flavors in Brescia

Some specific costs for nightlife related activities in Brescia:

  • Wine Tour and Tasting of Lugana Wines in Desenzano: $49
  • Franciacorta: Wine Tasting and Vineyard Tour with Snacks: $80
  • Vineyard Tour: Top Franciacorta Wine Tasting: $82
  • E-Bike tour and Wine tasting from Desenzano Inland: $92
  • Self-guided Wine tour in Franciacorta, Full-Day Experience with Lunch: $147
  • From Milan: Lake Iseo, Bergamo & Franciacorta Wine Tour: $738
  • VIP Experience to Lake Iseo and Franciacorta Wine Tasting: $1,604

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


Which is Bigger, Brescia or Hvar?

Brescia has a larger population, and is about 50 times larger than the population of Hvar. When comparing the sizes of Brescia 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 Brescia 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 Brescia or Hvar in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Brescia and Hvar. The family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Brescia this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Hvar for the beaches, snorkeling, the hiking, and the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Brescia is around the same temperature as Hvar. Typically, the summer temperatures in Brescia in July average around 24°C (75°F), and Hvar averages at about 26°C (80°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Hvar this time of the year. In Brescia, it's very sunny this time of the year. Brescia usually receives less sunshine than Hvar during summer. Brescia gets 286 hours of sunny skies, while Hvar receives 345 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Brescia usually receives more rain than Hvar. Brescia gets 73 mm (2.9 in) of rain, while Hvar receives 28 mm (1.1 in) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Brescia 24°C (75°F) 
    Hvar 26°C (80°F)

Should I visit Brescia or Hvar in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Brescia as well as Hvar. Many travelers come to Brescia for the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area. Also, many visitors come to Hvar in the autumn for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

In October, Brescia is generally cooler than Hvar. Daily temperatures in Brescia average around 14°C (58°F), and Hvar fluctuates around 18°C (64°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Hvar. In the autumn, Brescia often gets less sunshine than Hvar. Brescia gets 137 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Hvar receives 200 hours of full sun.

Brescia usually gets around the same amount of rain in October as Hvar. Brescia gets 84 mm (3.3 in) of rain, while Hvar receives 79 mm (3.1 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Brescia 14°C (58°F) 
    Hvar 18°C (64°F)

Should I visit Brescia or Hvar in the Winter?

Both Hvar and Brescia are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Brescia in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, most visitors come to Hvar for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months.

Brescia can get quite cold in the winter. Brescia is much colder than Hvar in the winter. The daily temperature in Brescia averages around 1°C (35°F) in January, and Hvar fluctuates around 8°C (47°F).

Brescia usually receives less sunshine than Hvar during winter. Brescia gets 98 hours of sunny skies, while Hvar receives 128 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Brescia usually receives less rain than Hvar. Brescia gets 60 mm (2.4 in) of rain, while Hvar receives 83 mm (3.3 in) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Brescia 1°C (35°F) 
    Hvar 8°C (47°F)

Should I visit Brescia or Hvar in the Spring?

Both Hvar and Brescia during the spring are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Brescia for the natural beauty during these months. Furthermore, the spring months attract visitors to Hvar because of the beaches and the natural beauty.

In the spring, Brescia is cooler than Hvar. Typically, the spring temperatures in Brescia in April average around 13°C (55°F), and Hvar averages at about 15°C (59°F).

In Hvar, it's very sunny this time of the year. In the spring, Brescia often gets less sunshine than Hvar. Brescia gets 169 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Hvar receives 212 hours of full sun.

Brescia usually gets around the same amount of rain in April as Hvar. Brescia gets 69 mm (2.7 in) of rain, while Hvar receives 66 mm (2.6 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Brescia 13°C (55°F) 
    Hvar 15°C (59°F)

Typical Weather for Hvar and Brescia

Brescia Hvar
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 1°C (35°F) 60 mm (2.4 in) 8°C (47°F) 83 mm (3.3 in)
Feb 6°C (42°F) 54 mm (2.1 in) 9°C (48°F) 68 mm (2.7 in)
Mar 9°C (47°F) 64 mm (2.5 in) 11°C (52°F) 75 mm (3 in)
Apr 13°C (55°F) 69 mm (2.7 in) 15°C (59°F) 66 mm (2.6 in)
May 17°C (63°F) 92 mm (3.6 in) 20°C (67°F) 56 mm (2.2 in)
Jun 21°C (71°F) 75 mm (3 in) 23°C (74°F) 51 mm (2 in)
Jul 24°C (75°F) 73 mm (2.9 in) 26°C (80°F) 28 mm (1.1 in)
Aug 23°C (73°F) 85 mm (3.3 in) 26°C (79°F) 50 mm (2 in)
Sep 20°C (67°F) 62 mm (2.4 in) 22°C (72°F) 61 mm (2.4 in)
Oct 14°C (58°F) 84 mm (3.3 in) 18°C (64°F) 79 mm (3.1 in)
Nov 7°C (45°F) 79 mm (3.1 in) 13°C (56°F) 108 mm (4.3 in)
Dec 3°C (38°F) 54 mm (2.1 in) 10°C (49°F) 100 mm (3.9 in)