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

Should you visit Florence or Hvar?

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

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

Florence

Florence is a alluring, historical, and artistic city. You'll find world class beauty here as well. And you can't forget about the nightlife, food, and shopping.

Hvar

Hvar is a beautiful, vibrant, and energetic island. The beauty of this spot is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. Visitors also love the scuba diving and snorkeling, beaches, and hiking.

Florence and Hvar: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Florence or Hvar?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Florence than Hvar, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Florence is better known for its museums, food, historical sights, shopping, and impressive beauty, while Hvar is more popular for its nightlife, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, and hiking. Florence is well known for its iconic beauty, world-renowned Renaissance art and architecture, and beautifully maintained gardens. Also, Florence is famous for The Duomo (Santa Maria del Fiore). Hvar is well known for its wild parties, beautiful buildings, and world class cuisine.

How is Florence different from Hvar?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Florence is renowned for its sights and museums. Also, Hvar is not as famous, but is still a good island to visit for its museums and history.

The museums, monuments, and landmarks in Florence are among the most recognizable in the world. Because of it's important role in the Renaissance, the city has many world-renowned museums that you can visit. Famous sights and landmarks include the Uffizi Gallery, the Duomo, and the Academy Gallery.

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 Florence or Hvar? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Florence 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 Florence have been singled out for their culinary prowess. Once you've worked up an appetite exploring museums and churches, you'll find many amazing local restaurants around town. Local dishes incorporate a lot of hearty vegetables and meats. Famous dishes include a Florentine steak dish, rabbit, and a bean bed and cabbage soup.

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 Florence or Hvar Better for Nightlife?

Hvar is an unbeatable place for nightlife and partying. Also, Florence is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its evening party scene.

The nightlife in Hvar is well established with world renowned clubs and venues. 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.

There's a variety of activities in the evening in Florence. You'll find the most active nightlife in the Santa Croce neighborhood. The area attracts study abroad students as well as tourists who party late into the night.

Is Florence or Hvar Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Hvar is a nice place to visit for its diving and snorkeling. However, Florence 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.

Florence is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Florence or Hvar Better for Beaches?

Hvar is a great island for the beache. However, Florence is not a beach destination.

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.

Florence is not a beach destination.

Is Florence or Hvar Better for its Old Town?

Florence is renowned for its old town. However, Hvar does not have a historic old town.

The old town of Florence is one of the most recognized in the world. The historic center of the city is where you'll find many of the most beautiful buildings, art works, and quaint streets. It is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and it was at the heart of the Renaissance period.

Hvar does not have a historic old town.

Is Florence or Hvar Better for Hiking?

Hvar is a nice place to visit for hiking. However, Florence is not a hiking destination.

Hvar has hiking trails worth exploring. 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.

Florence is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Florence or Hvar?

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

Florence is a popular shopping destination with plenty of stores. There are many shops in the tourist heart of the city. Most are geared specifically to tourists so you may have to search to find a more authentic shopping experience. Famous items available in the city include gold jewelry, ceramics, leather, and perfume.

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 Florence or Hvar Better for Families?

Hvar is a great island for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Florence is not as popular, but is still a nice city 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.

Florence is a family-friendly place to visit. Most famous for its art and history, the city also has a number of activities that kids will enjoy. There's a carousel and a park that are perfect to let the little ones run around. There are a few kid-friendly museums, as well as a historic city center that will mesmerize the old and young alike.

Is Florence or Hvar Better for Couples?

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

Florence is a great city for couples, as it has plenty to offer. Art and history lovers will enjoy a visit to this truly beautiful city. Couples who enjoy museums, historic buildings, and world-renowned art, will find plenty to do in this city.

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 Florence or Hvar Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

For backpackers, both Florence and Hvar are first-rate places to visit.

With so many budget-friendly offerings, Florence is extremely popular for backpackers. The city is part of a popular route through Italy, and you'll find many backpackers and students in town. There are also many hostels, so you should have no trouble meeting other young travelers.

Hvar is a very popular city 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.

Is Florence or Hvar Better for Students?

Florence is renowned for students. However, Hvar is not popular with students.

Florence is a very popular city for students. Many students visit this city as part of a short term study abroad program, or for the entire length of their studies. The city is beautiful, and whether your focus is art, history, or culture, this city will not disappoint.

Hvar is not popular with students.

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

Florence and Hvar both offer notable public transit to get you around.

While Florence offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. There is a comprehensive bus system.

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

Is Florence or Hvar a more walkable city?

Florence is renowned 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.

It is easy to get around Florence on foot. Most people explore the city on foot.

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 Florence Worth Visiting? and Is Hvar Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Hvar or Florence?

How long in Florence or Hvar?

It's fun to spend time in either Florence or Hvar. Generally, people tend to spend more time in Florence due to the larger number of activities and things to do. Usually, 2-7 days is a good amount of time for Florence, and 2-4 days is enough time in Hvar.

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Florence than Hvar 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 Florence.

One day in Florence or Hvar?

Visitors enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the destination of Florence. 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.

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 Florence or Hvar?

Florence 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.

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 Florence or Hvar?

Visitors enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting the iconic destination of Florence. This city offers something for everyone. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. Plenty of people spend five days in the area when traveling. Five days is often enough time to do most activities.

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 Florence or Hvar?

Visitors enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the historical city of Florence. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. Many people spend one week here. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. Because of this, one week is usually enough time for a trip here.

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 Luxury Tours to Italy, The Best Budget Tours to 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 Florence and Hvar, we can see that Florence 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 Florence would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Florence 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 Florence Expensive? and Is Hvar Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Florence or Hvar?

Florence has a larger population, and is about 100 times larger than the population of Hvar. When comparing the sizes of Florence 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 Florence 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 Florence or Hvar in the Summer?

Both Hvar and Florence during the summer are popular places to visit. The family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Florence this time of year. Furthermore, many travelers come to Hvar for the beaches, snorkeling, the hiking, and the family-friendly experiences.

Florence is around the same temperature as Hvar in the summer. The daily temperature in Florence averages around 25°C (77°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 Florence. In the summer, Florence often gets less sunshine than Hvar. Florence gets 316 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Hvar receives 345 hours of full sun.

Florence usually gets more rain in July than Hvar. Florence gets 31 mm (1.2 in) of rain, while Hvar receives 28 mm (1.1 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Florence or Hvar in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Florence and Hvar. Many travelers come to Florence for the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area. Furthermore, many visitors come to Hvar in the autumn for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

In the autumn, Florence is cooler than Hvar. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Florence in October average around 16°C (61°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. Florence usually receives less sunshine than Hvar during autumn. Florence gets 177 hours of sunny skies, while Hvar receives 200 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Florence usually receives more rain than Hvar. Florence gets 96 mm (3.8 in) of rain, while Hvar receives 79 mm (3.1 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Florence or Hvar in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Florence as well as Hvar. Many visitors come to Florence in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Additionally, most visitors come to Hvar for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months.

In January, Florence is generally cooler than Hvar. Daily temperatures in Florence average around 7°C (45°F), and Hvar fluctuates around 8°C (47°F).

In the winter, Florence often gets less sunshine than Hvar. Florence gets 105 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Hvar receives 128 hours of full sun.

Florence usually gets less rain in January than Hvar. Florence gets 63 mm (2.5 in) of rain, while Hvar receives 83 mm (3.3 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Florence or Hvar in the Spring?

Both Hvar and Florence are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Florence for the natural beauty during these months. Also, the spring months attract visitors to Hvar because of the beaches and the natural beauty.

Florence is around the same temperature as Hvar in the spring. The daily temperature in Florence averages around 14°C (57°F) in April, and Hvar fluctuates around 15°C (59°F).

It's quite sunny in Hvar. Florence usually receives less sunshine than Hvar during spring. Florence gets 192 hours of sunny skies, while Hvar receives 212 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Florence usually receives more rain than Hvar. Florence gets 78 mm (3.1 in) of rain, while Hvar receives 66 mm (2.6 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Hvar and Florence