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

Should you visit Como or Hvar?

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

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

Como

Como is a scenic, trendy, and fun lake area. You'll find world class beauty here as well. And you can't forget about the nightlife, food, and beaches.

Hvar

Hvar is a beautiful, vibrant, and energetic island. With stunning beauty, it attracts visitors from all around. It's also popular because of the shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Como and Hvar: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular beach
  • Good for hiking
  • Fun shopping
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Impressive beauty
Things to Consider
  • Less museums and historical sights
  • Less popular for nightlife
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 Como or Hvar?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Hvar. Although Como and Hvar are both popular with visitors, Hvar has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Hvar is more popular for its museums, nightlife, scuba diving & snorkeling, and beaches, while Como is known for its food, hiking, shopping, and impressive beauty. Como is popular for its long-running history as a resort retreat for upscale travelers. Hvar is popular for its wild parties, beautiful buildings, and world class cuisine. It is also home to Hvar Fort.

How is Como different from Hvar?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Como
Hvar

Hvar is a nice place to visit for its museums and history. However, Como is lacking in options for its 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.

Como offers a handful of options for museums and historical sights. Most people visit for the lakeside setting, but there's history throughout, with notable buildings including the Duomo, Museo Civico, and Basilica di Sant'Abbondio.


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

Como
Hvar

Como 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 Como have been singled out for their culinary prowess. The area has its own style of Italian food. Polenta is one of the most popular dishes and it's usually served with meat, fish, or cheese. You can also enjoy several different types of fish such as misultitt (dried fish), salmon trout, pike, bleak, lavarello, and perch.

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 Como or Hvar Better for Nightlife?

Como
Hvar

Hvar is renowned for its evening party scene. Also, Como is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for nightlife.

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.

Como has an active nightlife scene for those who seek it out. It is more known for its glamour and sophistication than its raging party scene. There are fine dining restaurants where you can sip wine and enjoy the view. There are also theaters and jazz clubs that offer a relaxing vibe and a nice night out.

Is Como or Hvar Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Como
Hvar

Hvar is a nice place to visit for snorkeling and scuba diving. However, Como 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.

Como is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.


Is Como or Hvar Better for Beaches?

Como
Hvar

Hvar is an excellent place to visit for the beach. Also, Como is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its beaches.

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.

Plenty of visitors enjoy relaxing on the beach in Como. You'll find lakeside beaches where you can relax, sunbath, or swim. Many are affiliated with clubs and the atmosphere is often trendy and upscale. Don't expect a secluded and natural setting, but there are often nice restaurants nearby.

Is Como or Hvar Better for Hiking?

Como
Hvar

Como 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.

Como is a popular spot for hiking. There's a wide variety of hiking trails in the area that take you through the mountains or along the water's edge. One of the most popular trails is the Greenway del Lago di Como.

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 Como or Hvar?

Como
Hvar

Como 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 Como make it a world-class shopping destination. The shopping is comparable to major cities, with everything from high end boutiques to outlets and local markets. There are clothing shops, jewelry stores, and places to pick up local souvenirs. Shopping is a favorite activity for many visitors to Lake Como.

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 Como or Hvar Better for Families?

Como
Hvar

Como and Hvar are both high quality destinations for the whole family.

You'll find plenty of family-friendly things to do in Como. It has parks and gardens to explore, as well as Vezio Castle and many nice walking trails. A highlight for many kids is a visit to Lake Como Adventure Park.

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.

Is Como or Hvar Better for Couples?

Como
Hvar

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

Como is a great lake area for couples, as it has plenty to offer. Its beautiful walks, charming towns, and surrounding natural setting make this a great honeymoon and couple's getaway destination. Dine on Italian cuisine as you sip wine and look out on the pristine waters of Lake Como.

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 Como or Hvar Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Como
Hvar

Hvar is renowned for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Como is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for backpackers.

A large number of backpackers visit Hvar, as it is a very popular island for 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.

Backpackers come from all over to visit Como. It's a popular destination with all types of travelers, so you'll find a decent selection of hostels to choose from, and a number of other backpackers around to hang out with.


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

Como
Hvar

Visitors will find good public transit in both Como and Hvar.

Como has some public transit options. There are buses, ferries, and a funicular that travel to different towns around the lake.

You'll find some public transit in Hvar, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. Buses are operated by Cazmatrans Hva and they travel between the major municipalities.

Is Como or Hvar a more walkable city?

Como
Hvar

Como 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.

Como is a very walkable lake area. The entire area is very walkable and you'll enjoy many great views during your stroll.

Hvar is a somewhat walkable lake area. 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 Como Worth Visiting? and Is Hvar Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Hvar or Como?

How long in Como or Hvar?

It's fun to spend time in either Como or Hvar. Both can be explored in comparable amounts of time. However, 2-4 days is a good amount of time to spend in either destination.

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

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

One day in Como or Hvar?

Visitors enjoy the shopping and nightlife when visiting the destination of Como. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything.

Visitors enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the destination of Hvar. People usually spend lots of time at the beach. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything.


A weekend in Como or Hvar?

Como is a fun place to experience. 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.

Hvar is a fun place to experience. Most people visit for the nightlife. If you have a weekend, this is a great place to go. It's also a great beach destination, too. 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.

Five days in Como or Hvar?

You'll find food and shopping around the trendy destination of Como. This lake area 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.

You'll find scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping around the beautiful destination of Hvar. This island offers something for everyone. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

A week in Como or Hvar?

The trendy lake area of Como offers shopping and nightlife. 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.

The vibrant island of Hvar offers shopping and museums. You'll find plenty of activities on the beach. 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.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Rome, The Best 10-Day Tours from Rome, The Best One Week (7-Day) Tours in Croatia, and The Best 2-Week Tours in Croatia.


Which place is cheaper, Hvar or Como?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Como is €214, 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 Como and Hvar in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Como 146
    Hvar 38
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Como 292
    Hvar 76
Compare Hotels in Como and Hvar

Looking for a hotel in Como 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 Como


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: Como Hotel Prices and Hvar Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Como 14
    Hvar 47

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Como

Also for Como, here are a few examples of actual transportation services:

  • Private Transfer from Como to Milan hotels: $53
  • Private Transfer From Lecco or Malgrate: $65
  • Private transfer from Mandello del Lario or Abbadia Lariana: $76
  • Bellagio to Malpensa Airport Milan (MXP) - Departure Private Transfer: $78
  • Private transfer from Lenno or Argegno or Ossuccio: $147
  • Private Transfer from Lezzeno or Pognana Lario or Faggeto Lario: $169
  • From Bellagio or Como hotels to Venice (+water taxi) - Private Transfer: $193
  • Pirvate transfer from Malpensa airport to Como and Cernobbio: $207
  • Como Private Transfer from Como city centre to Milan Malpensa Airport: $221
  • Argegno: Private Transfer to/from Malpensa Airport: $235
  • Private Transfer: Lake Como to Milan Airport MXP in Luxury Van: $236
  • Milan Private Transfer from Cernobbio (Como) to Milan airports (LIN or MPX): $243

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 Como or Hvar?

Prices for flights to both Hvar and Como 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
    Como 60
    Hvar 38

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Como

For Como, here are some samples of tours and activities related to meals and dining experiences:

  • COOKING, EATING, LOVING - Lasagna cooking Class for everyone!: $45
  • Cantonese Dimsum Cooking Lesson in Como or Lugano with Chef Ling: $49
  • Dining Experience at a local's Home in Lentate Verbano with Show Cooking: $93
  • Lake Como Food Tour - Eat like a real Local: $108
  • Tour and historical dinner: Lake Como 1690: $131
  • Como Food Tour and the Farmers Market: $139
  • Homemade Pasta Cooking Class: $160
  • Como Area: Pizza Training Experience: $160
  • Pizza Training Experience. Como Area: $163
  • Lecco Bike Tour & Pizza Lunch: $163
  • Private Market Tour & Lunch or Dinner with a Local: $171
  • Como Food Tour: $180

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.
    Como -
    Hvar 7.48

Tours and Activities in Como

For Como, here are a few prices for actual activities, tours, and tickets provided by various companies:

  • Agra Scavenger Hunt and Sights Self-Guided Tour: $6.56
  • Private Audio Guided Walking Tour in Como: $8.71
  • Como Scavenger Hunt and Sights Self-Guided Tour: $8.75
  • Como Scavenger Hunt and Sights Self-Guided Tour: $8.94
  • A Self-Guided Walking Tour of Como and its Breathtaking Lakeside: $20
  • Self-Guided Tour of Como and its Breathtaking Lakeside: $20
  • Lake Self-Guided Walking Tour - Downtown Como: $21
  • Como City Audio Guide and Skip The Ticket Line to Brunate: $22
  • Como City Walking Tour : $27
  • City Tour with Duomo Visit and First Basin Lake Cruise: $32
  • Guided City Walking Tour: $32
  • 90minutes Tea Preparation and Tasting Experience in Como: $33

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
    Como -
    Hvar 9.18

Sample the Local Flavors in Como

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

  • Domaso: Wine Tasting at the Winery on Como Lake: $60
  • Italian Wine Tasting & Food Como Lake: $70
  • Lake Food and Wine tour in Colico: $114
  • Wine Tastings with Chef Luigi Gandola: $135
  • Private Wine Tasting in Bellagio with Chef Luigi Gandola: $185
  • Food and Wine Tours Lake Como: $196

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


Which is Bigger, Como or Hvar?

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

The summer brings many poeple to Como as well as Hvar. The beaches, the hiking, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Como this time of year. Additionally, many travelers come to Hvar for the beaches, snorkeling, the hiking, and the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Como is generally cooler than Hvar. Daily temperatures in Como average around 23°C (73°F), and Hvar fluctuates around 26°C (80°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Hvar. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Como this time of the year. In the summer, Como often gets less sunshine than Hvar. Como gets 250 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Hvar receives 345 hours of full sun.

Como usually gets more rain in July than Hvar. Como gets 60 mm (2.4 in) of rain, while Hvar receives 28 mm (1.1 in) of rain this time of the year.


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

Should I visit Como or Hvar in the Autumn?

Both Hvar and Como are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Como for the hiking trails, 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.

Como is cooler than Hvar in the autumn. The daily temperature in Como averages around 15°C (58°F) in October, and Hvar fluctuates around 18°C (64°F).

It's quite sunny in Hvar. Como usually receives less sunshine than Hvar during autumn. Como gets 152 hours of sunny skies, while Hvar receives 200 hours of full sun in the autumn.

It's quite rainy in Como. In October, Como usually receives more rain than Hvar. Como gets 103 mm (4 in) of rain, while Hvar receives 79 mm (3.1 in) of rain each month for the autumn.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Como 15°C (58°F) 
    Hvar 18°C (64°F)

Should I visit Como or Hvar in the Winter?

Both Hvar and Como during the winter are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Como 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.

Como can get quite cold in the winter. In the winter, Como is much colder than Hvar. Typically, the winter temperatures in Como in January average around 5°C (41°F), and Hvar averages at about 8°C (47°F).

In the winter, Como often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Hvar. Como gets 119 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Hvar receives 128 hours of full sun.

Como usually gets less rain in January than Hvar. Como gets 68 mm (2.7 in) of rain, while Hvar receives 83 mm (3.3 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Como 5°C (41°F) 
    Hvar 8°C (47°F)

Should I visit Como or Hvar in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Como and Hvar. Most visitors come to Como for the beaches and the natural beauty during these months. Also, the spring months attract visitors to Hvar because of the beaches and the natural beauty.

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

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Hvar this time of the year. Como usually receives less sunshine than Hvar during spring. Como gets 176 hours of sunny skies, while Hvar receives 212 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Como usually receives more rain than Hvar. Como gets 76 mm (3 in) of rain, while Hvar receives 66 mm (2.6 in) of rain each month for the spring.


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

Typical Weather for Hvar and Como

Como Hvar
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 5°C (41°F) 68 mm (2.7 in) 8°C (47°F) 83 mm (3.3 in)
Feb 6°C (44°F) 60 mm (2.3 in) 9°C (48°F) 68 mm (2.7 in)
Mar 10°C (49°F) 85 mm (3.4 in) 11°C (52°F) 75 mm (3 in)
Apr 13°C (55°F) 76 mm (3 in) 15°C (59°F) 66 mm (2.6 in)
May 17°C (62°F) 102 mm (4 in) 20°C (67°F) 56 mm (2.2 in)
Jun 20°C (69°F) 78 mm (3.1 in) 23°C (74°F) 51 mm (2 in)
Jul 23°C (73°F) 60 mm (2.4 in) 26°C (80°F) 28 mm (1.1 in)
Aug 22°C (72°F) 94 mm (3.7 in) 26°C (79°F) 50 mm (2 in)
Sep 19°C (67°F) 74 mm (2.9 in) 22°C (72°F) 61 mm (2.4 in)
Oct 15°C (58°F) 103 mm (4 in) 18°C (64°F) 79 mm (3.1 in)
Nov 9°C (49°F) 102 mm (4 in) 13°C (56°F) 108 mm (4.3 in)
Dec 6°C (42°F) 60 mm (2.4 in) 10°C (49°F) 100 mm (3.9 in)