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

Should you visit Dresden or Hvar?

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

Should I visit Dresden 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.

Dresden

Dresden is a architectural, cultural, and park-filled city. It's a large city, so you'll find plenty of things to do around town. And you can't forget about the nightlife, food, and shopping.

Hvar

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

Dresden and Hvar: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Dresden or Hvar?

Both Hvar and Dresden have plenty of things to do for visitors. Both offer a variety of sights, activities, and attractions for tourists. Dresden is more popular for its historical sights and big city activities, while Hvar is known for its food, nightlife, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, hiking, and impressive beauty. Hvar is more touristy than Dresden and is known for its wild parties, beautiful buildings, and world class cuisine. Dresden is popular for its beautiful palaces, castles, and many landmarks (such as the Baroque Zwinger Palace, Semperoper Opera House and the Church of Our Lady).

How is Dresden different from Hvar?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

For an educational experience, head to a museum or a notable sight in either Dresden or Hvar.

If you're looking for an educational opportunity, there are a decent number of museums and historical sights around Dresden. It's rich in culture and baroque architecture. Some of the main sights around town include Dresden Frauenkirche, the Dresden Royal Palace and Museums, the Zwinger and Old Masters Picture Gallery, and the Semper Opera.

Hvar is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. 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 Dresden or Hvar? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Hvar is a great destination for its restaurant scene. Also, Dresden is still popular, but not quite as popular for its local flavors and cuisine.

Dining out in Hvar is an experience not to be missed. 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 plenty of up and coming restaurants around Dresden. The food features a number of Saxon specialties, which are typically hearty and heavy on the meat. If you have a sweet tooth, you'll also appreciate the many sweets that you can find around town. You should make sure you try a Fettbemme (open faced sandwich), Eierschecke (a cake), and Sächsische Kartoffelsuppe (potato soup) while you're in town.

Is Dresden or Hvar Better for Nightlife?

Hvar is an amazing island to visit for its evening party scene. Also, Dresden is still popular, but not quite as popular 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.

The nightlife in Dresden has something for everybody. Head to Neustadt for the highest concentration of bars and clubs. There's a diversity of trendy clubs and casual bars. Bar hopping is easy as most places are accessible by public transit.

Is Dresden or Hvar Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Hvar is a popular place for snorkeling and scuba diving. However, Dresden 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.

Dresden is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Dresden or Hvar Better for Beaches?

Hvar is a great destination for the beach. However, Dresden 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.

Dresden is not a beach destination.

Is Dresden or Hvar Better for its Old Town?

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

Dresden is an extremely popular place to visit the historic old town area. Much of the city's old town has been rebuilt, but that's not to say it isn't beautiful. The main square and surrounding area are where you'll find the majority of the city's main sights.

Hvar does not have a historic old town.

Is Dresden or Hvar Better for Hiking?

Hvar is a popular place for its hiking experiences. However, Dresden 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.

Dresden is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Dresden or Hvar?

Shopping is a popular activity in both Hvar and Dresden.

Many visitors go to Dresden to go shopping. Kunsthofpassage Dresden is a network of streets where you'll find crafts, art, and other eclectic items for sale. Prager Strasse is a popular shopping street near old town and Seestrasse is where you'll find all of the trendy brands that are popular throughout Europe. The city also has many shopping malls.

Plenty of visitors enjoy shopping while in 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.

Is Dresden or Hvar Better for Families?

Hvar is a great destination for its family-friendly activities. However, Dresden is a city with minimal options 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.

For families, Dresden is not always the best place to visit. It doesn't have quite the abundance of activities for kids that you may find in other Germany cities, but that doesn't mean that kids will be bored. There's the Dresden Zoo, the Dresdner Parkeisenbahn (a small steam rail), and the Saxon Folk Art Museum. Families can also take a guided to of the Transparent Factory, which is owned by Volkswagon and provided information on the manufacturing of automobiles.

Is Dresden or Hvar Better for Couples?

Hvar is a great destination for couples. Also, Dresden is still popular, but not quite as popular for romance.

Couples visit Hvar frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. There are some romantic hotels and beautiful beaches that make this a wonderful destination for couples. Anyone who enjoys a coastal setting with clear waters and a variety of water sports will enjoy their time here.

Dresden is a nice destination for couples. Couples can explore the old town or walk through one of the city's many parks. The city has many cultural activities. In the new town you'll find many great bars and fascinating restaurants.

Is Dresden or Hvar Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Hvar is an amazing island to visit for backpackers. Also, Dresden is still popular, but not quite as popular 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.

Dresden is popular with backpackers and budget travelers. There are plenty of hostels to choose from and the city itself is not particularly expensive.

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

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

You'll find some public transit in Dresden, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. The city has two major train stations as well as tram and bus lines around town.

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

Is Dresden or Hvar a more walkable city?

Dresden 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.

Dresden is a very walkable city. Particularly in the compact city center you'll find Dresden to be very walkable.

Hvar is a somewhat walkable 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 Dresden Worth Visiting? and Is Hvar Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Hvar or Dresden?

How long in Dresden or Hvar?

It's fun to spend time in either Dresden or Hvar. Generally, people tend to spend more time in Hvar due to the larger number of activities and things to do. Usually, 1-3 days is a good amount of time for Dresden, and 2-4 days is enough time in Hvar.

Families should spend more time in Hvar than Dresden. 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 Dresden. 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 Dresden 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 Dresden or Hvar?

Visitors enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the destination of Dresden. Visiting the old town is also a must. 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 Dresden or Hvar?

Dresden is a fun place to experience. If you have a weekend, this is a great place to go. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. 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 Dresden or Hvar?

You'll find museums and nightlife around the cultural destination of Dresden. This 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.

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 Dresden or Hvar?

The architectural city of Dresden offers nightlife and food. 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.

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 One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Berlin, The Best 10-Day Tours from Berlin, 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 Dresden and Hvar, we can see that Dresden 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 Dresden would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Dresden 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 Dresden Expensive? and Is Hvar Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Dresden or Hvar?

Dresden has a larger population, and is about 130 times larger than the population of Hvar. When comparing the sizes of Dresden 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 Dresden 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 Dresden or Hvar in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Dresden and Hvar. Many visitors come to Dresden in the summer for the city activities and the family-friendly experiences. Furthermore, most visitors come to Hvar for the beaches, snorkeling, the hiking, and the family-friendly experiences during these months.

In July, Dresden is generally cooler than Hvar. Daily temperatures in Dresden average around 20°C (68°F), and Hvar fluctuates around 26°C (80°F).

In July, Dresden usually receives more rain than Hvar. Dresden gets 61 mm (2.4 in) of rain, while Hvar receives 28 mm (1.1 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Dresden or Hvar in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Dresden as well as Hvar. Most visitors come to Dresden for the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene during these months. Additionally, the autumn months attract visitors to Hvar because of the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

Dresden is much colder than Hvar in the autumn. The daily temperature in Dresden averages around 11°C (51°F) in October, and Hvar fluctuates around 18°C (64°F).

Dresden usually gets less rain in October than Hvar. Dresden gets 48 mm (1.9 in) of rain, while Hvar receives 79 mm (3.1 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Dresden or Hvar in the Winter?

Both Hvar and Dresden are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. The winter months attract visitors to Dresden because of the museums, the shopping scene, 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 Dresden can be very cold. In the winter, Dresden is much colder than Hvar. Typically, the winter temperatures in Dresden in January average around 1°C (33°F), and Hvar averages at about 8°C (47°F).

In January, Dresden usually receives less rain than Hvar. Dresden gets 38 mm (1.5 in) of rain, while Hvar receives 83 mm (3.3 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Dresden or Hvar in the Spring?

Both Hvar and Dresden during the spring are popular places to visit. The activities around the city are the main draw to Dresden this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Hvar for the beaches and the natural beauty.

In April, Dresden is generally cooler than Hvar. Daily temperatures in Dresden average around 10°C (50°F), and Hvar fluctuates around 15°C (59°F).

Dresden usually gets less rain in April than Hvar. Dresden gets 53 mm (2.1 in) of rain, while Hvar receives 66 mm (2.6 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Hvar and Dresden