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

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

Cannes

Cannes is a luxury, lavish, and glitzy resort city. The beauty of this spot is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. And you can't forget about the beaches, shopping, and nightlife.

Hvar

Hvar is a historic, beautiful, and vibrant island. With stunning beauty, it attracts visitors from all around. Other popular activities here include museums, nightlife, and food.

Cannes and Hvar: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Active nightlife
  • Good music scene
  • Nice resorts
  • Good scuba and snorkeling destination
  • Popular beach
  • Scenic old town
  • Fun shopping
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Impressive beauty
Things to Consider
  • 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
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for shopping


Is there more to do in Cannes or Hvar?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Cannes. Although Cannes and Hvar are both popular with visitors, Cannes has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Cannes is more popular for its food, music, resorts, historical sights, and shopping, while Hvar is known for its museums, nightlife, and hiking. Cannes is popular for its popularity with celebrities and its role as host for the international film festival. It is also home to Boulevard de la Croisette. Hvar is popular for its wild parties, beautiful buildings, and world class cuisine.

How is Cannes different from Hvar?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Cannes
Hvar

Hvar is very good for its sights and museums. However, Cannes does not have museums and landmarks.

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.

Cannes does not have museums and landmarks.


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

Cannes
Hvar

Cannes 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 Cannes have been singled out for their culinary prowess. The city is known for its fresh seafood and produce, local markets, and innovative chefs. There are also a number of traditional dishes that you should try in town including bouillabaisse, daube, and farcis niçois.

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 Cannes or Hvar Better for Nightlife?

Cannes
Hvar

Hvar is an amazing island to visit for its evening party scene. Also, Cannes is not as famous, but is still a good resort city to visit for nightlife.

Hvar has a colorful and one-of-a-kind nightlife scene. 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.

Cannes has a large number of nightlife venues. The nightlife scene is all about the glamour and prestige that this city is known for. There are exclusive nightclubs and luxury cocktail bars where the goal is to see and be seen. Parties last late into the night and the glitz and glamour fill the streets.

Is Cannes or Hvar Better for Music?

Cannes
Hvar

Cannes is renowned for its live music scene. However, Hvar is not a live music destination.

Live music, and music in many other forms, is everyone in Cannes The city is famous for its music festivals, but there are also many bands, DJs, and performers who visit year round.

Hvar is not a live music destination.


Is Cannes or Hvar Better for Resorts?

Cannes
Hvar

Cannes is renowned for its resorts. However, Hvar is not a resort destination.

Cannes is a world class resort vacation destination. The city is filled with luxury resorts and elegant hotels. Among the best are Hôtel Martinez, Hôtel Barrière Le Majestic, and Five Seas Hotel.

Hvar is not a resort destination.

Is Cannes or Hvar Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Cannes
Hvar

Cannes and Hvar both offer good scuba diving or snorkeling spots.

It's worth going snorkeling or scuba diving in Cannes. You can arrange scuba diving and snorkeling trips from a few vendors in town. You might see sponges, sea slugs octopus, cuttlefish, lobsters and even stingrays.

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.

Is Cannes or Hvar Better for Beaches?

Cannes
Hvar

Cannes and Hvar are superb choices for a beach vacation.

Cannes is a very popular place to visit for its beaches. You can choose from both public and private beaches in the area. You'll find more amenities and convenience at the private beaches which are closer to La Croisette (the main promenade in town). These beaches also come with a price tag attached. The public beaches have a more relaxed and natural vibe but are a little less convenient to get to.

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.


Is Cannes or Hvar Better for its Old Town?

Cannes
Hvar

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

Cannes is an extremely popular place to visit the historic old town area. Known as Le Suquet, the old town has many historic landmarks including the the Château de la Castre. There are also cobblestone streets and many great restaurants around town.

Hvar does not have a historic old town.

Is Cannes or Hvar Better for Hiking?

Cannes
Hvar

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

Cannes is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Cannes or Hvar?

Cannes
Hvar

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

The abundance of shops in Cannes make it a world-class shopping destination. With its many affluent visitors, the shopping scene in town is filled with luxury brands and posh boutiques. Perfume and porcelain are both popular things to buy in the area.

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 Cannes or Hvar Better for Families?

Cannes
Hvar

Hvar is a well-known place for its family-friendly activities. Also, Cannes is not as famous, but is still a good resort 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.

Cannes is a family-friendly resort city. Most people associate the city with the film festival and late night partying, but there are also kid-friendly restaurants, fun beach activities, and plenty of kid-friendly entertainment along La Croisette Boulevard. Make sure you check out the Grand Carousel and the many playgrounds around town.

Is Cannes or Hvar Better for Couples?

Cannes
Hvar

Cannes is renowned for its romantic activities. Also, Hvar is not as famous, but is still a good island to visit for couples.

Cannes is a great resort city for couples, as it has plenty to offer. It's grand hotels and luxury beach clubs make this a perfect romantic destination. There are world class restaurants, a vibrant nightlife scene, and many romantic spots around town that make for a memorable honeymoon or couple's getaway.

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 Cannes or Hvar Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Cannes
Hvar

Hvar is an amazing island to visit for backpackers. However, Cannes is not a good resort city 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.

Cannes is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. It's more famous for it's celebrity jetsetters than young budget travelers, but there are still several hostels and budget accommodation options tucked away in town.


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

Cannes
Hvar

Both Cannes and Hvar offer good public transit options.

Cannes has a few public transit options. There are buses that travel around the city.

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

Is Cannes or Hvar a more walkable city?

Cannes
Hvar

Cannes 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.

Cannes is a very walkable resort city. Many areas are easily explored on foot including the historic areas and the coastline.

Hvar is a somewhat walkable resort 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 Cannes Worth Visiting? and Is Hvar Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Hvar or Cannes?

How long in Cannes or Hvar?

It's fun to spend time in either Cannes or Hvar. In our opinion, Cannes has more to see and do, so we recommend that you spend more time in Cannes than Hvar. However, 2-4 days is a good amount of time to spend in either destination.

Families should spend more time in Hvar than Cannes. 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 Cannes than Hvar. You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in Cannes that are great for a weekend getaway or a longer couple's trip.

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Hvar than Cannes 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 Cannes or Hvar? Ideal Length of Stay
    Cannes 2-4 
    Hvar 2-4

One day in Cannes or Hvar?

Visitors enjoy the nightlife and live music when visiting the destination of Cannes. Visiting the old town is also a must. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything.

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 Cannes or Hvar?

Cannes is a fun place to experience. If you have a weekend, this is a great place to go. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. 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 Cannes or Hvar?

You'll find food and scuba diving and snorkeling around the lavish destination of Cannes. This resort 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.

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 Cannes or Hvar?

The glitzy resort city of Cannes offers scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping. 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.

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 Bicycle Tours in France, Tours for Outdoor and Nature Lovers in France, The Best One Week (7-Day) Tours in Croatia, and The Best 2-Week Tours in Croatia.


Which place is cheaper, Hvar or Cannes?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Cannes is €137, 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 Cannes and Hvar in more detail.



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

Looking for a hotel in Cannes 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 Cannes


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: Cannes Hotel Prices and Hvar Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Cannes 16
    Hvar 47

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Cannes

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Cannes:

  • Copenhagen: One Way Transfer to & from International Airport: $71
  • Round-Trip Boat Transfer to Saint Tropez: $78
  • Private Transfer from Cannes Port to Nice Cote Airport (NCE): $82
  • Cannes Hotels to Nice Intl Airport NCE Departure Private Transfer: $87
  • Private Transfer from Cannes Cruise Port to Monaco City Hotels: $91
  • Mandelieu to St Tropez Round Trip Ferry Transfer: $95
  • Private Direct Transfer From Cannes to Nice: $101
  • Departure Transfer: Cannes to Nice Airport NCE in Business Car: $103
  • Private Transfer: Cannes to Nice Airport NCE in Luxury Van: $116
  • Private One-way Transfer From Cannes to Nice, 2h Stop in Antibes: $124
  • Transfer Nice Airport French Riviera: $125
  • From 1-Way Private Transfer to Nice Airport: $128

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 Cannes or Hvar?

Prices for flights to both Hvar and Cannes 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
    Cannes 45
    Hvar 38

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
  • Hvar Small Group Wine Tour and Authentic Dalmatian Dinner: $272
  • The Best of Hvar in a Day with Wine tasting and Local Dinner: $273

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Cannes 30
    Hvar 7.48

Tours and Activities in Cannes

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

  • Cannes Scavenger Hunt and Sights Self-Guided Tour: $9.84
  • Explore Guided walking Tour with a local guide: $37
  • Cannes Discovery: walking Tour Led by a Local Expert: $38
  • Scenic Coves RIB Boat Tour: $48
  • Boat and Snorkeling Tour: $48
  • Cannes Like a Local: Customized Private Tour: $52
  • Guided Tour in Cannes by a Screenwriter: History, Glamour & Cinema: $55
  • 1 or 2-Hour Gyropod Tour: $58
  • Exclusive 2 hours City Tour in Cannes in a Vintage Bus: $64
  • City Tour in Cannes aboard our Classic French Bus!: $65
  • Half Day Tour in Cannes, Antibes and St Paul de Vence: $65
  • Cannes 2.5-Hour E-bike Tour: $74

Tours and Activities in Hvar

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

  • 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
  • Hvar Island Self-Guided E-Bike Tour: $65
  • Half-day kayak tour from Hvar town: $65
  • Romantic Sunset Sailing Experience On A Comfort Yacht: $70
  • Hvar Self Guided E-bike Tour: $70
  • Experience Romantic Sunset Sailing on a modern 36ft (11m) sail yacht | Hvar: $71
  • Boat Tour at Delfina Hvar: $76
  • Blue cave group tour with swimming and snorkelling from Hvar: $76
  • Sunset tour with a SpeedBoat: $79

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Cannes 18
    Hvar 9.18

Sample the Local Flavors in Cannes

Here are a few nightlife and alcohol tours and activities from local tour providers in Cannes:

  • St Paul de Vence, Antibes & Wine Tasting from Cannes: $130
  • Grasse, Valbonne & Gourdon: Day Tour with Wine Tasting: $139
  • French Riviera: Provencal Wine Tours: $759
  • Wine Tasting, Cannes, Coco Chanel, Perfume Factory & Grasse: $1,273

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


When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Cannes and Hvar, we can see that Cannes 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 Cannes would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Cannes 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 Cannes Expensive? and Is Hvar Expensive?.


Which is Bigger, Cannes or Hvar?

Cannes has a larger population, and is about 20 times larger than the population of Hvar. When comparing the sizes of Cannes 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 Cannes 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 Cannes or Hvar in the Summer?

Both Hvar and Cannes are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Cannes for the beaches, snorkeling, the music scene, and 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, Cannes is generally cooler than Hvar. Daily temperatures in Cannes average around 23°C (73°F), and Hvar fluctuates around 26°C (80°F).

In July, Cannes usually receives less rain than Hvar. Cannes gets 16 mm (0.6 in) of rain, while Hvar receives 28 mm (1.1 in) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Cannes 23°C (73°F) 
    Hvar 26°C (80°F)

Should I visit Cannes or Hvar in the Autumn?

Both Hvar and Cannes during the autumn are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Cannes in the autumn for the shopping scene, the music 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.

Cannes is around the same temperature as Hvar in the autumn. The daily temperature in Cannes averages around 17°C (63°F) in October, and Hvar fluctuates around 18°C (64°F).

It rains a lot this time of the year in Cannes. Cannes usually gets more rain in October than Hvar. Cannes gets 108 mm (4.3 in) of rain, while Hvar receives 79 mm (3.1 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Cannes 17°C (63°F) 
    Hvar 18°C (64°F)

Should I visit Cannes or Hvar in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Cannes and Hvar. Most visitors come to Cannes for 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.

In the winter, Cannes is around the same temperature as Hvar. Typically, the winter temperatures in Cannes in January average around 9°C (48°F), and Hvar averages at about 8°C (47°F).

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


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Cannes 9°C (48°F) 
    Hvar 8°C (47°F)

Should I visit Cannes or Hvar in the Spring?

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

In April, Cannes is generally cooler than Hvar. Daily temperatures in Cannes average around 13°C (56°F), and Hvar fluctuates around 15°C (59°F).

Cannes usually gets around the same amount of rain in April as Hvar. Cannes gets 62 mm (2.4 in) of rain, while Hvar receives 66 mm (2.6 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Cannes 13°C (56°F) 
    Hvar 15°C (59°F)

Typical Weather for Hvar and Cannes

Cannes Hvar
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 9°C (48°F) 83 mm (3.3 in) 8°C (47°F) 83 mm (3.3 in)
Feb 9°C (49°F) 76 mm (3 in) 9°C (48°F) 68 mm (2.7 in)
Mar 11°C (51°F) 71 mm (2.8 in) 11°C (52°F) 75 mm (3 in)
Apr 13°C (56°F) 62 mm (2.4 in) 15°C (59°F) 66 mm (2.6 in)
May 16°C (62°F) 49 mm (1.9 in) 20°C (67°F) 56 mm (2.2 in)
Jun 20°C (68°F) 36 mm (1.4 in) 23°C (74°F) 51 mm (2 in)
Jul 23°C (73°F) 16 mm (0.6 in) 26°C (80°F) 28 mm (1.1 in)
Aug 23°C (73°F) 31 mm (1.2 in) 26°C (79°F) 50 mm (2 in)
Sep 21°C (69°F) 54 mm (2.1 in) 22°C (72°F) 61 mm (2.4 in)
Oct 17°C (63°F) 108 mm (4.3 in) 18°C (64°F) 79 mm (3.1 in)
Nov 12°C (54°F) 104 mm (4.1 in) 13°C (56°F) 108 mm (4.3 in)
Dec 10°C (49°F) 78 mm (3.1 in) 10°C (49°F) 100 mm (3.9 in)