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

Should you visit Galway or Hvar?

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

Trying to figure out where to travel next? This travel comparison between Galway and Hvar can help. It includes a travel cost comparison in addition to other factors. For many travelers, the cost of a destination is a primary consideration when choosing where to go.

Galway

Galway is a cultural, historical, and vibrant 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 vibrant, energetic, and party-oriented island. This is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. It's also known for scuba diving and snorkeling, beaches, and hiking.

Galway and Hvar: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Galway or Hvar?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Hvar. Although Galway and Hvar are popular destinations, Hvar has more sights and attractions for tourists. Hvar is very popular for its food, nightlife, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, hiking, and impressive beauty, while Galway attracts visitors for its big city activities. Hvar is more touristy than Galway and is known for its wild parties, beautiful buildings, and world class cuisine. It is also well known for Hvar Fort. Galway is famous for its many festivals, its traditional pubs, and its live Irish folk music.

How is Galway different from Hvar?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Both Galway and Hvar have nice landmarks and museums for visitors.

Galway is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. Popular landmarks and sights in town include Eyre Square, St. Nicholas' Church, the Galway Cathedral, and the Galway City Museum.

Hvar offers a variety of museums and landmarks to choose from. 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 Galway or Hvar? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Hvar is notable for its local cuisine and restaurants. Also, Galway is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its restaurants.

With its innovative style combined with traditional elements, Hvar makes for a great culinary experience. 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.

Galway has a delicious restaurant scene that relies on local flavors. There are local pubs and traditional restaurants offering authentic Irish dishes. Popular options include Irish Stew, Cockles and Mussels, and Galway Oysters.

Is Galway or Hvar Better for Nightlife?

Hvar is an unbeatable place for nightlife. Also, Galway is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for nightlife and partying.

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.

Galway has a lively atmosphere and nightlife is popular here. The nightlife scene is among the best in Ireland. The city embraces the friendly Irish hospitality and there are laid back pubs and bars around town as well as a few trendy nightclubs.

Is Galway or Hvar Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Hvar is a island with good options for the nearby scuba diving and snorkeling. However, Galway is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

It's fun to get in the water and check out the local marine life 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.

Galway is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Galway or Hvar Better for Beaches?

Hvar is notable for its beaches. However, Galway is not a beach destination.

The beaches at Hvar attract visitors from all over. 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.

Galway is not a beach destination.

Is Galway or Hvar Better for Hiking?

Hvar is a island with good options for the nearby hiking options. However, Galway is not a hiking destination.

Plenty of visitors go hiking around Hvar. 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.

Galway is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Galway or Hvar?

Both Galway and Hvar are nice shopping destinations.

Galway is a great destination for shopping. You'll find shopping both in the city center as well as at suburban shopping malls. For some of the best shopping head to The Latin Quarter, The Westend or the outdoor market which is found in Church lane by St Nicholas' Church.

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.

Is Galway or Hvar Better for Families?

Hvar is notable for its family-friendly activities. Also, Galway is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its kid-friendly activities.

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.

Galway is a family-friendly city. Kids will enjoy the National Aquarium Galway or simply wandering around the Latin Quarter. About 15 minutes outside of the city is the Wildlands Adventure Park which has ziplines, ropes courses, and other adrenaline filled activities. Brigit's Garden is another fun place to let kids stretch their legs.

Is Galway or Hvar Better for Couples?

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

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.

Galway makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. There are nice restaurants, beautiful walks, and a few parks to explore. There are also several romantic places just outside of town that make for a great day trip.

Is Galway or Hvar Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Hvar is an unbeatable place for backpackers. Also, Galway is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for backpackers and budget travelers.

Hvar is a mecca for backpackers and 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.

Many backpackers visit Galway. There are plenty of hostels in the area and it's easy to meet other travelers.

Is Galway or Hvar Better for Students?

Galway is a city with good options for students. However, Hvar is not popular with students.

Galway is a good city to visit for students. The city has a solid student population with a number of activities and entertainment options.

Hvar is not popular with students.

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

Both Galway and Hvar offer nice public transit options.

Galway has a few public transit options. There are two bus companies in Galway, Bus Eireann and City Direct.

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

Is Galway or Hvar a more walkable city?

Galway 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.

Galway is a very walkable city. If you stay in central Galway, the area is generally compact and 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 Galway Worth Visiting? and Is Hvar Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Hvar or Galway?

How long in Galway or Hvar?

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

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

Visitors enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the destination of Galway. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything.

Many travelers enjoy the scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping when visiting the destination of Hvar. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

A weekend in Galway or Hvar?

Galway 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 great place to explore. It is common to spend a weekend here. Don't miss the nightlife, as that's what most people do. With all of its activities, you can easily fill a weekend here. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

Five days in Galway or Hvar?

You'll find museums and nightlife around the historical destination of Galway. This city offers something for everyone. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Hvar. Don't miss the nightlife, as that's what most people do. Most people come for the beaches. Five days may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

A week in Galway or Hvar?

The lively city of Galway offers nightlife and food. 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.

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the party-oriented destination of Hvar. This island offers a variety of activities to choose from. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Budget Tours to Ireland, The Best Tours for Seniors to Ireland, 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 Galway and Hvar, we can see that Galway 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 Galway would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Galway 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 Galway Expensive? and Is Hvar Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Galway or Hvar?

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

Both Hvar and Galway are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. The summer months attract visitors to Galway because of the city activities and the family-friendly experiences. Also, the beaches, snorkeling, the hiking, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Hvar this time of year.

In the summer, Galway is much colder than Hvar. Typically, the summer temperatures in Galway in July average around 16°C (60°F), and Hvar averages at about 26°C (80°F).

It's quite sunny in Hvar. Galway usually receives less sunshine than Hvar during summer. Galway gets 142 hours of sunny skies, while Hvar receives 345 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Galway usually receives more rain than Hvar. Galway gets 54 mm (2.1 in) of rain, while Hvar receives 28 mm (1.1 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Galway or Hvar in the Autumn?

Both Hvar and Galway during the autumn are popular places to visit. The city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene are the main draw to Galway this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Hvar for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

In October, Galway is generally much colder than Hvar. Daily temperatures in Galway average around 11°C (52°F), and Hvar fluctuates around 18°C (64°F).

In Hvar, it's very sunny this time of the year. In the autumn, Galway often gets less sunshine than Hvar. Galway gets 96 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 Galway. Galway usually gets more rain in October than Hvar. Galway gets 142 mm (5.6 in) of rain, while Hvar receives 79 mm (3.1 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Galway or Hvar in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Galway and Hvar. Many travelers come to Galway for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, many visitors come to Hvar in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Galway is much colder than Hvar in the winter. The daily temperature in Galway averages around 6°C (42°F) in January, and Hvar fluctuates around 8°C (47°F).

Galway usually receives less sunshine than Hvar during winter. Galway gets 59 hours of sunny skies, while Hvar receives 128 hours of full sun in the winter.

Galway gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In January, Galway usually receives more rain than Hvar. Galway gets 116 mm (4.6 in) of rain, while Hvar receives 83 mm (3.3 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Galway or Hvar in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Galway as well as Hvar. Many visitors come to Galway in the spring for the activities around the city. Also, most visitors come to Hvar for the beaches and the natural beauty during these months.

In the spring, Galway is much colder than Hvar. Typically, the spring temperatures in Galway in April average around 9°C (48°F), and Hvar averages at about 15°C (59°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Hvar. In the spring, Galway often gets less sunshine than Hvar. Galway gets 153 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Hvar receives 212 hours of full sun.

Galway usually gets less rain in April than Hvar. Galway gets 52 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 Galway