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

Should you visit Chartres or Hvar?

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

Should I visit Chartres 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.

Chartres

Chartres is a grand, spectacular, and historic town. It's a very nice small town not to be missed. And you can't forget about the food and museums.

Hvar

Hvar is a party-oriented, historic, and beautiful island. The beauty of this spot is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. Visitors also love the beaches, hiking, and shopping.

Chartres and Hvar: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Good for couples and romance
Things to Consider
  • 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
  • Fun shopping
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Impressive beauty


Is there more to do in Chartres or Hvar?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Hvar than Chartres, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Hvar is better known for its food, nightlife, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, hiking, shopping, and impressive beauty, while Chartres is more popular for its small town charm. Hvar is more touristy than Chartres and is popular for its wild parties, beautiful buildings, and world class cuisine. Also, Hvar is famous for Hvar Fort. Chartres is well known for its beautiful cathedral and long running history.

How is Chartres different from Hvar?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Chartres
Hvar

Visiting museums and landmarks is a fun activity in both Chartres and Hvar.

Chartres offers a variety of museums and landmarks to choose from. Most visitors make the trip to see the spectacular Gothic cathedral, Cathédrale Notre-Dame. It was completed in 1220 and is famous for its beautiful stained glass windows.

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 Chartres or Hvar? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Chartres
Hvar

Hvar is great for its local flavors and cuisine. Also, Chartres is not as popular, but is still a nice town for its local cuisine and restaurants.

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.

There are many up and coming restaurants in the Chartres area. There are a number of restaurants around town so it's easy to grab lunch during a day trip.

Is Chartres or Hvar Better for Nightlife?

Chartres
Hvar

Hvar is a must-visit destination for nightlife and partying. However, Chartres is not a destination with noteworthy nightlife.

Hvar is a world class party destination. 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.

Chartres is not a destination with noteworthy nightlife.

Is Chartres or Hvar Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Chartres
Hvar

Hvar is a popular place for its diving and snorkeling. However, Chartres 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.

Chartres is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.


Is Chartres or Hvar Better for Beaches?

Chartres
Hvar

Hvar is great for the beache. However, Chartres 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.

Chartres is not a beach destination.

Is Chartres or Hvar Better for Hiking?

Chartres
Hvar

Hvar is a popular place for hiking. However, Chartres 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.

Chartres is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Chartres or Hvar?

Chartres
Hvar

Hvar is a popular place for its shopping opportunities. However, Chartres is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Hvar. 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.

Chartres is not a noteworthy shopping destination.


Is Chartres or Hvar Better for Families?

Chartres
Hvar

Hvar is great for its kid-friendly activities. However, Chartres is not a good destination for its family-friendly activities.

Because of its large number of kid-friendly activities, Hvar is very family-friendly. 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.

Chartres is not the most family-friendly destination. The main attraction in town is the cathedral, but the surrounding area is also filled with history. This may not keep your kids entertained for long, so you can also check out the Stained Glass Museum, La Tanière (a zoo), or one of the parks around town.

Is Chartres or Hvar Better for Couples?

Chartres
Hvar

Hvar is great for its romantic activities. Also, Chartres is not as popular, but is still a nice town for couples.

Hvar is a great island if you're traveling as 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.

Chartres is a good town for couples to visit. With its cathedral and rich history, many couples enjoy exploring the town. It is filled with history and interesting sights.

Is Chartres or Hvar Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Chartres
Hvar

Hvar is a must-visit destination for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Chartres is not as popular, but is still a nice town for backpackers.

With so many budget-friendly offerings, Hvar is extremely popular 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.

Chartres is popular with backpackers and budget travelers. It's easy enough to visit as a day trip from Paris, so backpackers and other tourists typically allow themselves a few hours to explore.


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

Chartres
Hvar

Chartres 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 Chartres can get you to some places easily. There are trains that leave Paris Montparnasse 1 Et 2 every half hour and travel to Chartres. The trip takes about 1 hour 15 minutes.

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

Is Chartres or Hvar a more walkable city?

Chartres
Hvar

Chartres 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.

Chartres is a very walkable town. It's easy to see the sights around town on foot.

Hvar is a somewhat walkable town. 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 Chartres Worth Visiting? and Is Hvar Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Hvar or Chartres?

How long in Chartres or Hvar?

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

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

One day in Chartres or Hvar?

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

The beautiful island of Hvar offers museums and nightlife. Most people come for the beaches. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.


A weekend in Chartres or Hvar?

Chartres 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 popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have a weekend, this island makes for a great vacation. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Hvar, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Five days in Chartres or Hvar?

You'll find museums and food around the grand destination of Chartres. This town offers something for everyone. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

Hvar is a popular choice for travelers. It's no surprise that nightlife is why people visit. Five days 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. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

A week in Chartres or Hvar?

The historic town of Chartres offers food and museums. 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.

Hvar is a great place to explore. It's no surprise that nightlife is why people visit. It's also a great beach destination, too. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. This island offers something for everyone.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Vineyard & Wine Tours in France, The Best Food and Culinary Tours 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 Chartres?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Chartres is €117, 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 Chartres and Hvar in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Chartres 59
    Hvar 38
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Chartres 118
    Hvar 76
Compare Hotels in Chartres and Hvar

Looking for a hotel in Chartres 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 Chartres


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: Chartres Hotel Prices and Hvar Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Chartres 26
    Hvar 47

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 Chartres or Hvar?

Prices for flights to both Hvar and Chartres 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
    Chartres 39
    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
  • 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.
    Chartres 22
    Hvar 7.48

Tours and Activities in Chartres

Also, here are some specific examples of entertainment, tickets, and activities for Chartres.

  • City Exploration Game and Tour on your Phone: $6.41

Tours and Activities in Hvar

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

  • BLUE CAVE & 5 islands tour from Hvar: $98
  • 1-Hour Battle Archery Game in Hvar Adventure Park: $22
  • 1-Hour Private Paintball Adventure in Park Hvar Jelsa: $23
  • 3-Hour Lavender Tour from Hvar: $150
  • Adventurous Blue and Green Cave group tour: $86
  • Back to the Roots - Ancient Island Interactive Experience: $141
  • Beach bar Laganini and Hula Hula half-day Private Boat Tour: $918
  • Blue & Green cave tour with yacht from town Hvar: $229
  • Blue Cave & Vis Island speedboat tour from Hvar: $109
  • Blue Cave and Pakleni Islands group Tour from Hvar: $107
  • Blue cave group tour with swimming and snorkelling from Hvar: $76
  • Blue cave tour with speed boat from town Hvar: $196

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Chartres 12
    Hvar 9.18

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


Which is Bigger, Chartres or Hvar?

Chartres has a larger population, and is about 10 times larger than the population of Hvar. When comparing the sizes of Chartres 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 Chartres or Hvar?

Both places have a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. As both cities are in the northern hemisphere, summer is in July and winter is in January.

Should I visit Chartres or Hvar in the Summer?

Both Hvar and Chartres during the summer are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Chartres 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.

Chartres is cooler than Hvar in the summer. The daily temperature in Chartres averages around 20°C (68°F) in July, and Hvar fluctuates around 26°C (80°F).

In Hvar, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Chartres. In the summer, Chartres often gets less sunshine than Hvar. Chartres gets 239 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Hvar receives 345 hours of full sun.

Chartres usually gets more rain in July than Hvar. Chartres gets 55 mm (2.2 in) of rain, while Hvar receives 28 mm (1.1 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Chartres 20°C (68°F) 
    Hvar 26°C (80°F)

Should I visit Chartres or Hvar in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Chartres and Hvar. Most visitors come to Chartres for 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.

In the autumn, Chartres is cooler than Hvar. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Chartres in October average around 13°C (56°F), and Hvar averages at about 18°C (64°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Hvar this time of the year. Chartres usually receives less sunshine than Hvar during autumn. Chartres gets 126 hours of sunny skies, while Hvar receives 200 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Chartres usually receives less rain than Hvar. Chartres gets 43 mm (1.7 in) of rain, while Hvar receives 79 mm (3.1 in) of rain each month for the autumn.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Chartres 13°C (56°F) 
    Hvar 18°C (64°F)

Should I visit Chartres or Hvar in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Chartres as well as Hvar. The winter months attract visitors to Chartres because of the museums 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 Chartres can be very cold. In January, Chartres is generally much colder than Hvar. Daily temperatures in Chartres average around 5°C (40°F), and Hvar fluctuates around 8°C (47°F).

In the winter, Chartres often gets less sunshine than Hvar. Chartres gets 56 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Hvar receives 128 hours of full sun.

Chartres usually gets less rain in January than Hvar. Chartres gets 55 mm (2.2 in) of rain, while Hvar receives 83 mm (3.3 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Chartres 5°C (40°F) 
    Hvar 8°C (47°F)

Should I visit Chartres or Hvar in the Spring?

Both Hvar and Chartres are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. The small town charm are the main draw to Chartres this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Hvar for the beaches and the natural beauty.

Chartres is cooler than Hvar in the spring. The daily temperature in Chartres averages around 11°C (52°F) in April, and Hvar fluctuates around 15°C (59°F).

It's quite sunny in Hvar. Chartres usually receives less sunshine than Hvar during spring. Chartres gets 173 hours of sunny skies, while Hvar receives 212 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Chartres usually receives less rain than Hvar. Chartres gets 48 mm (1.9 in) of rain, while Hvar receives 66 mm (2.6 in) of rain each month for the spring.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Chartres 11°C (52°F) 
    Hvar 15°C (59°F)

Typical Weather for Hvar and Chartres

Chartres Hvar
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 5°C (40°F) 55 mm (2.2 in) 8°C (47°F) 83 mm (3.3 in)
Feb 6°C (42°F) 48 mm (1.9 in) 9°C (48°F) 68 mm (2.7 in)
Mar 8°C (47°F) 49 mm (1.9 in) 11°C (52°F) 75 mm (3 in)
Apr 11°C (52°F) 48 mm (1.9 in) 15°C (59°F) 66 mm (2.6 in)
May 15°C (59°F) 57 mm (2.2 in) 20°C (67°F) 56 mm (2.2 in)
Jun 18°C (64°F) 51 mm (2 in) 23°C (74°F) 51 mm (2 in)
Jul 20°C (68°F) 55 mm (2.2 in) 26°C (80°F) 28 mm (1.1 in)
Aug 20°C (67°F) 46 mm (1.8 in) 26°C (79°F) 50 mm (2 in)
Sep 17°C (63°F) 55 mm (2.1 in) 22°C (72°F) 61 mm (2.4 in)
Oct 13°C (56°F) 43 mm (1.7 in) 18°C (64°F) 79 mm (3.1 in)
Nov 8°C (47°F) 63 mm (2.5 in) 13°C (56°F) 108 mm (4.3 in)
Dec 5°C (42°F) 51 mm (2 in) 10°C (49°F) 100 mm (3.9 in)