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

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

Catania

Catania is a historic, lively, and youthful port city. It's a large city, so you'll find plenty of things to do around town. And you can't forget about the shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Hvar

Hvar is a historic, beautiful, and vibrant island. 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 scuba diving and snorkeling.

Catania and Hvar: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Catania or Hvar?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Catania than Hvar, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Catania is better known for its food, historical sights, hiking, and big city activities, while Hvar is more popular for its nightlife, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, and impressive beauty. Hvar is more touristy than Catania and is known for its wild parties, beautiful buildings, and world class cuisine. Catania is well known for its fun nightlife scene, many beaches, and easy access to Mt. Etna. Also, Catania is famous for Mount Etna.

How is Catania different from Hvar?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Plenty of people visit the notable sights and museums in both Catania and Hvar.

Catania offers a variety of museums and landmarks to choose from. There are many examples of beautiful architecture around town including Basilica Cattedrale Sant'Agata and Monastero dei Benedettini. You can also visit Castello Ursino. The main square in town is Piazza del Duomo.

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.

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

Catania 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 Catania have been singled out for their culinary prowess. The city's food scene is excellent. Dishes are influenced by both the sea and the land, and you'll find a large and popular street food setting. If you're sampling the street food, make sure you try the arancino (rice balls). Pasta dishes are also popular and many use a variety of cheeses. You'll also find plenty of fresh vegetables incorporated into many dishes.

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 Catania or Hvar Better for Nightlife?

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

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.

Catania has a lively atmosphere and nightlife is popular here. The city has a reputation for its great nightlife scene that spreads beyond Sicily. The large student population and popularity with tourists mean you can find a party most nights of the week. There are many bars and clubs to check out, many of which are found in the old town center.

Is Catania or Hvar Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Hvar is very good for its diving and snorkeling. However, Catania 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.

Catania is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Catania or Hvar Better for Beaches?

Hvar is notable for the beache. Also, Catania is not as famous, but is still a good port city to visit for the beach.

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.

Catania has a beach worth visiting. The best time to visit the beach is between April and October. There are sandy beaches to the south of town that span a few kilometers and beaches to the north tend to be rocky. Many beaches are also accessible by public transit.

Is Catania or Hvar Better for its Old Town?

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

Many people head to Catania to see the old town. The old town is a bit small. At its center is Piazza Duomo and you'll find many activities and attractions in the area.

Hvar does not have a historic old town.

Is Catania or Hvar Better for Hiking?

Catania is notable for the nearby hiking options. Also, Hvar is not as famous, but is still a good island to visit for its hiking trails.

Catania is a popular spot for hiking. Many people visit Mt. Etna as a day trip. You can take the bus to Sapienza Refuge to begin your climb. While it's a doable hike for many people, it can be steep and requires some determination. Unless you're a very experienced hiker, a guide is a must as the trail disappears for large sections. There are also buses and cable cars that take people up sections of the mountain.

Hvar offers some nice hiking trails. 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.

Is the Shopping Better in Catania or Hvar?

Both Catania and Hvar are notable shopping destinations.

Catania offers some nice shopping areas. The city has a number of shopping malls where you can pick up anything you may need or might have forgotten. Check out Catania Shopping Center or Etnapolis.

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 Catania or Hvar Better for Families?

You'll find superb kid-friendly activities in either Catania or Hvar.

Catania is a very kid-friendly port city. There's a toy museum as well as the Polo Tactile Multimedia Museum which kids and adults alike will enjoy. A highlight of a visit to the city is a trip up Mt. Etna, which can be done either by hiking, bus, or cable car. The city also has many plazas, gardens, and parks that kids will enjoy exploring. Another fun activity is to spend the day at the beach.

You'll find plenty of family-friendly things to do in Hvar. 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 Catania or Hvar Better for Couples?

Hvar is notable for its romantic activities. Also, Catania is not as famous, but is still a good port city to visit for couples.

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.

Catania is a good port city for couples to visit. With interesting architecture, a pleasant urban beach, and plenty of outdoor space, this is a nice couples destination.

Is Catania or Hvar Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Hvar is very popular for backpackers. Also, Catania is not as famous, but is still a good port city to visit for backpackers and budget travelers.

Backpackers and budget travelers come from all over the world to visit Hvar. 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.

Plenty of budget travelers and backpackers visit Catania. There's a large number of hostels around town and the city is generally affordable, so backpackers often enjoy spending some time here. There's also a great social scene.

Is Catania or Hvar Better for Students?

Catania is notable for students. However, Hvar is not popular with students.

Students come from all over to stay in Catania. This is a university town with a very social atmosphere. Students love the wide variety of activities around town as well as the frequent night time parties.

Hvar is not popular with students.

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

Catania 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 Catania can get you to some places easily. There are many buses around town that offer access to most places. If you drove you can park and take Line 504M to the historic center. You can also take a bus from Piazza Giovanni XXIII to Rifugio Sapienza if you're going to Mt. Etna. It leaves every morning at 8:15 and returns at 4:30 in the afternoon. The city also has a metro, which has one line and ten stops.

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

Is Catania or Hvar a more walkable city?

Catania 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.

Catania is a very walkable port city. Many of the city's main sights are close together in the center of town, making them easy to access on foot.

Hvar is a somewhat walkable port 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 Catania Worth Visiting? and Is Hvar Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Hvar or Catania?

How long in Catania or Hvar?

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

Families should spend more time in Catania than Hvar. Because of the many family-friendly attractions and fun things to do for kids in Catania, it's a great place to visit with the whole family.

Couples should spend more time in Hvar than Catania. 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 Catania 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 Catania or Hvar?

Visitors enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the destination of Catania. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. 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 Catania or Hvar?

Catania is a fun place to experience. Most people visit for the food. If you have a weekend, this is a great place to go. Hikers are also drawn to this area. 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 Catania or Hvar?

You'll find museums and nightlife around the youthful destination of Catania. This port city offers something for everyone. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. 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 Catania or Hvar?

The lively port city of Catania offers nightlife and food. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. 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 Romantic Tours for Couples in Italy, The Best Walking Tours in 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 Catania and Hvar, we can see that Catania 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 Catania would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Catania 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 Catania Expensive? and Is Hvar Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Catania or Hvar?

Catania has a larger population, and is about 80 times larger than the population of Hvar. When comparing the sizes of Catania 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 Catania 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 Catania or Hvar in the Summer?

Both Hvar and Catania are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Catania for the beaches, the hiking, the city activities, 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.

Catania is around the same temperature as Hvar in the summer. The daily temperature in Catania averages around 26°C (79°F) in July, 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 Catania. Catania usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Hvar during summer. Catania gets 325 hours of sunny skies, while Hvar receives 345 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Catania usually receives less rain than Hvar. Catania gets 6 mm (0.2 in) of rain, while Hvar receives 28 mm (1.1 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Catania or Hvar in the Autumn?

Both Hvar and Catania during the autumn are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Catania in the autumn for the hiking trails, the city's sights and attractions, and the shopping scene. Also, most visitors come to Hvar for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area during these months.

In the autumn, Catania is around the same temperature as Hvar. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Catania in October average around 19°C (67°F), and Hvar averages at about 18°C (64°F).

In Hvar, it's very sunny this time of the year. In the autumn, Catania often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Hvar. Catania gets 189 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 Catania. Catania usually gets more rain in October than Hvar. Catania gets 128 mm (5 in) of rain, while Hvar receives 79 mm (3.1 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Catania or Hvar in the Winter?

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

In January, Catania is generally a little warmer than Hvar. Daily temperatures in Catania average around 10°C (51°F), and Hvar fluctuates around 8°C (47°F).

Catania usually receives more sunshine than Hvar during winter. Catania gets 153 hours of sunny skies, while Hvar receives 128 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Catania usually receives less rain than Hvar. Catania gets 69 mm (2.7 in) of rain, while Hvar receives 83 mm (3.3 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Catania or Hvar in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Catania as well as Hvar. The spring months attract visitors to Catania because of the beaches and the activities around the city. Also, the beaches and the natural beauty are the main draw to Hvar this time of year.

Catania is around the same temperature as Hvar in the spring. The daily temperature in Catania averages around 15°C (58°F) in April, and Hvar fluctuates around 15°C (59°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Hvar. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Catania this time of the year. In the spring, Catania often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Hvar. Catania gets 204 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Hvar receives 212 hours of full sun.

Catania usually gets less rain in April than Hvar. Catania gets 37 mm (1.5 in) of rain, while Hvar receives 66 mm (2.6 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Hvar and Catania