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

Should you visit Heidelberg or Hvar?

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

Which city should you visit? Read on to compare the activities as well as the prices of travel for Heidelberg and Hvar. We'll break down costs for accommodation, food, transportation and more to help you learn more about these two destinations. Then, you can figure out if either of these two places are accessible based on your travel budget, schedule, and interests. So, let's dig into it.

Heidelberg

Heidelberg is a energetic, lively, and charming town. You'll find world class beauty here as well. This is an attractive and quaint destination worth visiting as well. And you can't forget about the food, shopping, and nightlife.

Hvar

Hvar is a energetic, party-oriented, and historic island. With stunning beauty, it attracts visitors from all around. It's also popular because of the museums, nightlife, and food.

Heidelberg and Hvar: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Heidelberg or Hvar?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Hvar. Although Heidelberg 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, beaches, and hiking, while Heidelberg is known for its historical sights, impressive beauty, and quaint atmosphere. Hvar is more touristy than Heidelberg and is popular for its wild parties, beautiful buildings, and world class cuisine. It is also home to Hvar Fort. Heidelberg is popular for its picturesque beauty, romantic atmosphere, and its classic old town.

How is Heidelberg different from Hvar?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Hvar is a good destination for its historical sights. However, Heidelberg does not have 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.

Heidelberg does not have museums and landmarks.

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

Picking the best cuisine and restaurants between Heidelberg and Hvar can be difficult as they are each very good in their own way.

Heidelberg has a number of nationally recognized food spots and restaurants. The old town is filled with local restaurants that offer an assortment of traditional dishes. The restaurants offer a mix of outdoor and indoor seating and classic dishes include saumagen, lewwerkneedl, and dampfnudeln.

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.

Is Heidelberg or Hvar Better for Nightlife?

Hvar is an amazing island to visit for its evening party scene. Also, Heidelberg is not as popular, but is still a nice town 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.

Heidelberg offers plenty to do in the evening. As a university town, you'll find a very young population and many bars, pubs, and nightclubs where you can hang out.

Is Heidelberg or Hvar Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Hvar is a good destination for snorkeling and scuba diving. However, Heidelberg is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Grab a mask and fins and explore the underwater scenery 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.

Heidelberg is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Heidelberg or Hvar Better for Beaches?

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

Many people visit Hvar for it's beautiful beaches. 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.

Heidelberg is not a beach destination.

Is Heidelberg or Hvar Better for its Old Town?

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

The old town of Heidelberg is one of the most recognized in the world. The charming old town, or Altstadt, is lined with cafes that spill out onto the street and churches with bells that chime hourly. The area is filled with activity and there are many shops, ice cream vendors, and restaurants to choose from.

Hvar does not have a historic old town.

Is Heidelberg or Hvar Better for Hiking?

Hvar is a good destination for hiking. However, Heidelberg is not a hiking destination.

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.

Heidelberg is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Heidelberg or Hvar?

If you're looking to go shopping, Heidelberg and Hvar both offer plenty of good spots.

Heidelberg has a variety of shopping areas worth visiting. The pedestrian area is the best place to pass your time shopping. There are name brand stores mixed in with local independent shops which you'll mostly find on the side streets. Popular items to buy include wooden toys, Christmas decorations, and candy.

Hvar is a great destination for shopping. 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 Heidelberg or Hvar Better for Families?

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

You'll find plenty of family-friendly things to do in Hvar. 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.

Heidelberg is a family-friendly place to visit. With its many ice cream shops, playgrounds, and impressive castle, this city makes a nice stop for families with kids. The restaurants usually have a kid's menu and there are a number of kid-friendly museums and activities.

Is Heidelberg or Hvar Better for Couples?

Heidelberg and Hvar both very good destinations for a couple.

Heidelberg is a great town if you're traveling as a couple. This beautiful city offers an impressive backdrop for a couple's getaway. The view from the castle looks out beautifully over the city and the old town has many excellent restaurants and activities that are great for couples.

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.

Is Heidelberg or Hvar Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Hvar is an amazing island to visit for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Heidelberg is not as popular, but is still a nice town 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 Heidelberg. Prices are reasonable and there are a handful of hostels around town. As a university town, you can be assured there are plenty of fun activities and cheap places to eat.

Is Heidelberg or Hvar Better for Students?

Heidelberg is a town with good options for students. However, Hvar is not popular with students.

Heidelberg is a good town to visit for students. It is a beautiful student town with a lot of activities for young visitors. This is not the most popular study abroad destination, but it does have a lot to offer for those who visit.

Hvar is not popular with students.

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

Heidelberg 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 Heidelberg can get you to some places easily. There are trams and buses that connect the old town to the train station.

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

Is Heidelberg or Hvar a more walkable city?

Heidelberg 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.

Heidelberg is a very walkable town. The old town is particularly walkable.

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 Heidelberg Worth Visiting? and Is Hvar Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Hvar or Heidelberg?

How long in Heidelberg or Hvar?

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

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

Visitors enjoy the shopping and nightlife when visiting the destination of Heidelberg. 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.

With food and scuba diving and snorkeling around the beautiful island of Hvar, there's plenty to do. Anyone can find something fun to do here. One of the main draws to the area is the nightlife. People usually spend lots of time at the beach. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

A weekend in Heidelberg or Hvar?

Heidelberg 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.

With scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping around the destination of Hvar, there's plenty to do. It's also a great beach destination, too. It offers something for everyone. Many people spend a weekend here. One of the main draws to the area is the nightlife. In a weekend, you should have a good grasp of this island.

Five days in Heidelberg or Hvar?

You'll find food and shopping around the energetic destination of Heidelberg. This town 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, a popular island, is full of activities for travelers. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

A week in Heidelberg or Hvar?

The energetic town of Heidelberg offers shopping and nightlife. 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.

Hvar is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. One of the main draws to the area is the nightlife. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Vineyard & Wine Tours in Germany, The Best Food and Culinary Tours in Germany, 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 Heidelberg and Hvar, we can see that Heidelberg 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 Heidelberg would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Heidelberg 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 Heidelberg Expensive? and Is Hvar Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Heidelberg or Hvar?

Heidelberg has a larger population, and is about 40 times larger than the population of Hvar. When comparing the sizes of Heidelberg 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 Heidelberg 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 Heidelberg or Hvar in the Summer?

Both Hvar and Heidelberg during the summer are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Heidelberg for the family-friendly experiences during these months. Furthermore, the summer months attract visitors to Hvar because of the beaches, snorkeling, the hiking, and the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Heidelberg is generally cooler than Hvar. Daily temperatures in Heidelberg average around 21°C (69°F), and Hvar fluctuates around 26°C (80°F).

In Hvar, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Heidelberg. In the summer, Heidelberg often gets less sunshine than Hvar. Heidelberg gets 224 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Hvar receives 345 hours of full sun.

Heidelberg usually gets more rain in July than Hvar. Heidelberg gets 78 mm (3.1 in) of rain, while Hvar receives 28 mm (1.1 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Heidelberg or Hvar in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Heidelberg and Hvar. The autumn months attract visitors to Heidelberg because of the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area. Furthermore, the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Hvar this time of year.

Heidelberg is cooler than Hvar in the autumn. The daily temperature in Heidelberg averages around 12°C (54°F) in October, and Hvar fluctuates around 18°C (64°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Hvar this time of the year. Heidelberg usually receives less sunshine than Hvar during autumn. Heidelberg gets 102 hours of sunny skies, while Hvar receives 200 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Heidelberg usually receives less rain than Hvar. Heidelberg gets 57 mm (2.2 in) of rain, while Hvar receives 79 mm (3.1 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Heidelberg or Hvar in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Heidelberg as well as Hvar. The shopping scene and the cuisine are the main draw to Heidelberg this time of year. Additionally, many travelers come to Hvar for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

It's quite cold in Heidelberg in the winter. In the winter, Heidelberg is much colder than Hvar. Typically, the winter temperatures in Heidelberg in January average around 3°C (37°F), and Hvar averages at about 8°C (47°F).

In the winter, Heidelberg often gets less sunshine than Hvar. Heidelberg gets 38 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Hvar receives 128 hours of full sun.

Heidelberg usually gets less rain in January than Hvar. Heidelberg gets 52 mm (2 in) of rain, while Hvar receives 83 mm (3.3 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Heidelberg or Hvar in the Spring?

Both Hvar and Heidelberg are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Heidelberg for the natural beauty. Also, many visitors come to Hvar in the spring for the beaches and the natural beauty.

In April, Heidelberg is generally cooler than Hvar. Daily temperatures in Heidelberg average around 11°C (52°F), and Hvar fluctuates around 15°C (59°F).

It's quite sunny in Hvar. Heidelberg usually receives less sunshine than Hvar during spring. Heidelberg gets 155 hours of sunny skies, while Hvar receives 212 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Heidelberg usually receives less rain than Hvar. Heidelberg gets 57 mm (2.2 in) of rain, while Hvar receives 66 mm (2.6 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Hvar and Heidelberg