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

Should you visit Hvar or San Jose?

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

Trying to figure out where to travel next? This travel comparison between Hvar and San Jose 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.

Hvar

Hvar is a beautiful, vibrant, and energetic island. Hvar is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. Other reasons to visit include nightlife, food, and scuba diving and snorkeling. See Hvar travel costs.

San Jose

San Jose is a colorful, bustling, and authentic 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. See San Jose travel costs.

Hvar and San Jose: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Hvar or San Jose?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Hvar. Although Hvar and San Jose 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 San Jose attracts visitors for its shopping and big city activities. Hvar is more touristy than San Jose and is popular for its wild parties, beautiful buildings, and world class cuisine. It is also well known for Hvar Fort. San Jose is famous for its colorful markets and vibrant nightlife, as well as its easy access to the rest of the country.

How is Hvar different from San Jose?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Hvar or San Jose?

Plenty of people visit the nice sights and museums in both Hvar and San Jose.

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.

If you're looking for an educational opportunity, there are a decent number of museums and historical sights around San Jose. Despite most people rushing through town, there are a number of museums, plazas, and interesting buildings that are worth checking out.

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

Hvar is a very popular place for its restaurants. Also, San Jose is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its restaurant scene.

The food selection at local restaurants is excellent in Hvar. 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.

Visitors will find a budding food and restaurant scene in San Jose. Most people miss out on local cuisine during their time in Costa Rica, but the capital city offers the best opportunities to eat like a local. You can sample favorite local dishes such as chifrijo, gallo pinto, rondón, and casado. You should also wander through the Central Market and dine at one of the many local restaurants.

Is Hvar or San Jose Better for Nightlife?

Hvar is very popular for nightlife. Also, San Jose is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for nightlife and partying.

Hvar is a party destination, and you'll find plenty of activity all night long. 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.

San Jose is a popular destination for visitors looking to party into the night. This city has the best nightlife in all of Costa Rica. You'll find a diversity of clubs and bars that are fun to explore. Check out the reggae bars, dance clubs, and sports bars (where you can enjoy a soccer game) while you're in town.

Is Hvar or San Jose Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Hvar is a nice place to visit for the nearby scuba diving and snorkeling. However, San Jose 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.

San Jose is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Hvar or San Jose Better for Beaches?

Hvar is a very popular place for its beaches. However, San Jose 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.

San Jose is not a beach destination.

Is Hvar or San Jose Better for Hiking?

Hvar is a nice place to visit for its hiking trails. However, San Jose 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.

San Jose is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Hvar or San Jose?

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

San Jose is a popular shopping destination with plenty of stores. There are a number of unique things you can buy in the city including jewelry, handbags, and wood workings. Make sure you check out the Central Market.

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 Hvar or San Jose More Beautiful?

Hvar is a very popular place for its scenery and beauty. However, San Jose is not a destination known for its beauty.

Hvar is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. It's a beautiful island with nice beaches and charming buildings.

San Jose is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Hvar or San Jose Better for Families?

Hvar is a very popular place for its kid-friendly activities. However, San Jose is lacking in good options for its family-friendly activities.

Hvar is a very family-friendly destination. 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.

San Jose doesn't usually come to mind when thinking about kid-friendly destinations. Most people pass through the city quickly, but if you have a day or two to explore, you can visit the Children's Museum (Museo de los Niños), Spirogyra Butterfly Gardens, or explore the Central Market.

Is Hvar or San Jose Better for Couples?

Hvar is a very popular place for romance. However, San Jose is lacking in good options for its romantic activities.

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.

Most people don't think of San Jose as a couple's destination. While Costa Rica is a popular honeymoon destination, the capital city is often overlooked for the beaches and rainforests around the country.

Is Hvar or San Jose Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Hvar is very popular for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, San Jose is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for backpackers.

Many backpackers frequent Hvar. 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.

San Jose is a great island to visit for backpackers. Backpackers appreciate the affordability of the city and the wide range of hostels that you can choose from. The city also offers an authentic glimpse of life in Costa Rica.

Is Hvar or San Jose Better for Students?

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

San Jose is a good city to visit for students. Many students come to Costa Rica to study the country's amazing environment and unique ecological systems. San Jose makes a good base as its easy to travel to other parts of this small country.

Hvar is not popular with students.

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

Both Hvar and San Jose offer nice public transit options.

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

San Jose has some public transit options. There are local buses that travel through the city during the daytime hours.

Is Hvar or San Jose a more walkable city?

Hvar and San Jose both are nice when exploring on foot.

Hvar is a somewhat walkable place. Hvar Town can be explored on foot, but you'll need a vehicle to explore other parts of the island.

San Jose is a somewhat walkable island. It can feel a bit chaotic, but it's relatively easy to get around on foot.

For even more information, also check out Is Hvar Worth Visiting? and Is San Jose Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in San Jose or Hvar?

How long in Hvar or San Jose?

You'll be able to find lots of things to do in Hvar or San Jose to fill your time. Many travelers usually spend more of their time in Hvar than San Jose because of the number of activities and things to do in the area. Usually, 2-4 days is a good amount of time for Hvar, and 1-2 days is enough time in San Jose.

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Hvar than San Jose 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 Hvar or San Jose?

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.

Visitors enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the destination of San Jose. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One day is usually enough time to experience most activities.

A weekend in Hvar or San Jose?

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.

San Jose 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.

Five days in Hvar or San Jose?

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.

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

A week in Hvar or San Jose?

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.

The traditional city of San Jose 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.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best One Week (7-Day) Tours in Croatia, The Best 2-Week Tours in Croatia, The Best Budget Tours to Costa Rica, and The Best Tours for Seniors to Costa Rica.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Hvar and San Jose, we can see that Hvar is more expensive. And not only is San Jose much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. Since Hvar is in Europe and San Jose is in Central America, this is one of the main reasons why the costs are so different, as different regions of the world tend to have overall different travel costs. So, traveling to San Jose would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in San Jose 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 Hvar would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Hvar than you might in San Jose.

If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is Hvar Expensive? and Is San Jose Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Hvar or San Jose?

San Jose has a larger population, and is about 90 times larger than the population of Hvar. When comparing the sizes of Hvar and San Jose, 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 Hvar or San Jose?

Hvar has a temperate climate with four distinct seasons, but San Jose experiences a warm climate with fairly sunny weather most of the year.

Should I visit Hvar or San Jose in the Summer?

Both San Jose and Hvar during the summer are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Hvar for the beaches, snorkeling, the hiking, and the family-friendly experiences during these months. Warm weather and sunshine bring visitors to San Jose year-round.

In July, Hvar is generally around the same temperature as San Jose. Daily temperatures in Hvar average around 26°C (80°F), and San Jose fluctuates around 28°C (82°F).

It's quite sunny in Hvar. In the summer, Hvar often gets more sunshine than San Jose. Hvar gets 345 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while San Jose receives 164 hours of full sun.

San Jose gets a good bit of rain this time of year. Hvar usually gets less rain in July than San Jose. Hvar gets 28 mm (1.1 in) of rain, while San Jose receives 164 mm (6.5 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Hvar or San Jose in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Hvar and San Jose. The autumn months attract visitors to Hvar because of the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area. San Jose attracts visitors year-round for its warm weather and sunny climate.

Hvar is much colder than San Jose in the autumn. The daily temperature in Hvar averages around 18°C (64°F) in October, and San Jose fluctuates around 27°C (81°F).

In Hvar, it's very sunny this time of the year. Hvar usually receives more sunshine than San Jose during autumn. Hvar gets 200 hours of sunny skies, while San Jose receives 169 hours of full sun in the autumn.

San Jose receives a lot of rain in the autumn. In October, Hvar usually receives less rain than San Jose. Hvar gets 79 mm (3.1 in) of rain, while San Jose receives 254 mm (10 in) of rain each month for the autumn. December to April in San Jose is the dry season. The hurricane season in San Jose is May to November.

Should I visit Hvar or San Jose in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Hvar as well as San Jose. The museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Hvar this time of year. The warm climate attracts visitors to San Jose throughout the year.

In the winter, Hvar is much colder than San Jose. Typically, the winter temperatures in Hvar in January average around 8°C (47°F), and San Jose averages at about 27°C (81°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in San Jose. In the winter, Hvar often gets less sunshine than San Jose. Hvar gets 128 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while San Jose receives 264 hours of full sun.

Hvar usually gets more rain in January than San Jose. Hvar gets 83 mm (3.3 in) of rain, while San Jose receives 8 mm (0.3 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Hvar or San Jose in the Spring?

Both San Jose and Hvar are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Hvar for the beaches and the natural beauty. Plenty of visitors come to San Jose because of the warm climate and sunshine that lasts throughout the year.

In April, Hvar is generally much colder than San Jose. Daily temperatures in Hvar average around 15°C (59°F), and San Jose fluctuates around 29°C (85°F).

It's quite sunny in San Jose. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Hvar. Hvar usually receives less sunshine than San Jose during spring. Hvar gets 212 hours of sunny skies, while San Jose receives 255 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Hvar usually receives more rain than San Jose. Hvar gets 66 mm (2.6 in) of rain, while San Jose receives 28 mm (1.1 in) of rain each month for the spring. The dry season in San Jose is December to April. May to November is the hurricane season in San Jose.

Typical Weather for San Jose and Hvar