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

Should you visit Imperia or Hvar?

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

Should I visit Imperia 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.

Imperia

Imperia is a charming, undiscovered, and authentic town. It's a beautiful place to visit, too. 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 beaches, hiking, and shopping.

Imperia and Hvar: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for nightlife
  • Less popular with backpackers
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Good scuba and snorkeling destination
  • Popular beach
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Impressive beauty


Is there more to do in Imperia or Hvar?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Hvar. Although Imperia and Hvar are both popular with visitors, Hvar has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Hvar is more touristy than Imperia and is known for its wild parties, beautiful buildings, and world class cuisine. It is also home to Hvar Fort. Imperia is popular for its access to the Ligurian coastline.

How is Imperia different from Hvar?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Imperia
Hvar

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

If you're looking for an educational opportunity, there are a decent number of museums and historical sights around Imperia. There are several interesting buildings of importance around town.

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 Imperia or Hvar? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Imperia
Hvar

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

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 Imperia. Food ranges from typical Italian dishes to local recipes that use local ingredients. Unique ingredients in the area include trumpet zucchini, flat breads, and anchovies.

Is Imperia or Hvar Better for Nightlife?

Imperia
Hvar

Hvar is a must-visit destination for its evening party scene. Also, Imperia is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for nightlife.

Hvar is a world class party destination. 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.

With a handful of venues, visitors can find a fairly lively vibe in Imperia. There are some bars and lively restaurants around town where you can spend an enjoyable evening.

Is Imperia or Hvar Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Imperia
Hvar

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

Imperia is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.


Is Imperia or Hvar Better for Beaches?

Imperia
Hvar

Hvar is notable for the beach. However, Imperia 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.

Imperia is not a beach destination.

Is Imperia or Hvar Better for Hiking?

Imperia
Hvar

Hvar is a popular place for the nearby hiking options. However, Imperia 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.

Imperia is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Imperia or Hvar?

Imperia
Hvar

Both Imperia and Hvar are good shopping destinations.

Many visitors go to Imperia to go shopping. There are some shopping streets in town that have a mix of local brands and standard clothing shops.

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 Imperia or Hvar Better for Families?

Imperia
Hvar

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

Imperia is a family-friendly town. There's some nice walking trails in the countryside that the kids will enjoy.

Is Imperia or Hvar Better for Couples?

Imperia
Hvar

Hvar is notable for couples. Also, Imperia is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for romance.

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.

Imperia is a nice destination for couples. It's a beautiful town with a nice atmosphere that offers a nice break from the tourist crowds.

Is Imperia or Hvar Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Imperia
Hvar

Hvar is a must-visit destination for backpackers. Also, Imperia is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit 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.

Imperia is popular with backpackers and budget travelers. Accommodation tends to be affordable and there's an off-the-beaten-path vibe that some backpackers will appreciate.


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

Imperia
Hvar

Both Imperia and Hvar offer good public transit options.

Imperia has a few public transit options. There are buses that connect the city to different areas.

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

Is Imperia or Hvar a more walkable city?

Imperia
Hvar

Imperia and Hvar both are good when exploring on foot.

Imperia is a somewhat walkable town. Parts of the town are convenient to walk around.

Hvar is somewhat walkable. 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 Imperia Worth Visiting? and Is Hvar Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Hvar or Imperia?

How long in Imperia or Hvar?

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

Families should spend more time in Hvar than Imperia. 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 Imperia. 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 Imperia 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.


  • How many days in Imperia or Hvar? Ideal Length of Stay
    Imperia 1-2 
    Hvar 2-4

One day in Imperia or Hvar?

Visitors enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the destination of Imperia. 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 Imperia or Hvar?

Imperia 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.

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 Imperia or Hvar?

You'll find museums and nightlife around the undiscovered destination of Imperia. This town offers something for everyone. 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 Imperia or Hvar?

The undiscovered town of Imperia 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.

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 Walking Tours in Italy, The Best Luxury Tours to Italy, The Best One Week (7-Day) Tours in Croatia, and The Best 2-Week Tours in Croatia.


Which place is cheaper, Hvar or Imperia?

These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations.

The average daily cost (per person) in Imperia is €108, while the average daily cost in Hvar is €102. These costs include accommodation (assuming double occupancy, so the traveler is sharing the room), food, transportation, and entertainment. While every person is different, these costs are an average of past travelers in each destination. What follows is a categorical breakdown of travel costs for Imperia and Hvar in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Imperia 51
    Hvar 38
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Imperia 102
    Hvar 76
Compare Hotels in Imperia and Hvar

Looking for a hotel in Imperia or Hvar? Prices vary by location, date, season, and the level of luxury. See below for options and compare which is best for your budget and travel style.

Hotels in Imperia


Hotels in Hvar


Kayak helps you find the best prices for hotels, flights, and rental cars for destinations around the world. Compare prices for multiple destinations when planning your next trip.


Our Analysis
We've analyzed the average and typical hotel prices based on guest reviews, star ratings, and hotel amenities here: Imperia Hotel Prices and Hvar Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Imperia 36
    Hvar 47

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Hvar

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Hvar:

  • Speedboat Transfer from Hvar Town to Split Airport: $535

Is it cheaper to fly into Imperia or Hvar?

Prices for flights to both Hvar and Imperia change regularly based on dates and travel demand. We suggest you find the best prices for your next trip on Kayak, because you can compare the cost of flights across multiple airlines for your prefered dates.





Food
  • Food Meals for one day
    Imperia 35
    Hvar 38

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Hvar

Also, here are some specific examples of food and dining related activities in Hvar.

  • Hvar Charming Abandoned Village Small Group Tour and Local Dinner: $180
  • Hvar Hidden Gems Tour with Lunch or Dinner: $187
  • Hvar Hidden Gems Small Group Half Day Tour with Lunch or Dinner: $202
  • Hvar Abandoned Village Tour with Local Dinner: $214
  • Private Hvar Wine Tasting Tour with Traditional Dinner: $234
  • Food Tour: Traditional Flavours and Food Sampling on Hvar: $262
  • The Best of Hvar in a Day with Wine tasting and Local Dinner: $273
  • Hvar Small Group Wine Tour and Authentic Dalmatian Dinner: $273

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Imperia 13
    Hvar 7.48

Tours and Activities in Imperia

Some specific costs of activities, tours, and entrance tickets for Imperia are as follows:

  • Imperia - Old Town Private Historic Walking Tour: $428

Tours and Activities in Hvar

Some specific costs of activities, tours, and entrance tickets for Hvar are as follows:

  • 1-Hour Battle Archery Game in Hvar Adventure Park: $22
  • 1-Hour Private Paintball Adventure in Park Hvar Jelsa: $23
  • Private Multi-Activity Experience in Adventure Park Hvar Jelsa: $25
  • Walking tour of Hvar with your local guide: $32
  • Pakleni Islands Self-Guided Kayaking Tour: $48
  • Private Half-Day Kayak Experience in Hvar and Pakleni Islands: $49
  • Half-day kayak tour from Hvar town: $65
  • Hvar Island Self-Guided E-Bike Tour: $65
  • Private Hvar Island E-Bike Tour: $68
  • Romantic Sunset Sailing Experience On A Comfort Yacht: $70
  • Experience Romantic Sunset Sailing on a modern 36ft (11m) sail yacht | Hvar: $71
  • Private Hvar Walking Tour: $71

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Imperia 7.50
    Hvar 9.18

Sample the Local Flavors in Hvar

Also in Hvar, these are the prices for nightlife and alcohol related activities from various tour providers:

  • Hvar Wine Tasting Experience: $118
  • Hvar Wine tasting small group experience: $131
  • Private Hvar Wine Tasting Tour : $142
  • Wine Tasting Tour: $157
  • Chocolate and Wine Tasting Small Group Tour from Hvar: $175


When comparing the travel costs between Imperia and Hvar, we can see that Imperia is more expensive. However, the two cities are actually relatively comparable in price, as the difference is somewhat minimal. Generally, this means that you could travel with generally the same travel style and level of luxury in each place. Since both cities are in Europe, it's no surprise that their costs are relatively close, as many destinations here have somewhat similar travel prices overall.

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


Which is Bigger, Imperia or Hvar?

Imperia has a larger population, and is about 10 times larger than the population of Hvar. When comparing the sizes of Imperia 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 Imperia 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 Imperia or Hvar in the Summer?

Both Hvar and Imperia are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Imperia in the summer for the family-friendly experiences. Also, most visitors come to Hvar for the beaches, snorkeling, the hiking, and the family-friendly experiences during these months.

In July, Imperia is generally around the same temperature as Hvar. Daily temperatures in Imperia average around 25°C (76°F), and Hvar fluctuates around 26°C (80°F).

It's quite sunny in Hvar. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Imperia. Imperia usually receives less sunshine than Hvar during summer. Imperia gets 295 hours of sunny skies, while Hvar receives 345 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Imperia usually receives less rain than Hvar. Imperia gets 12 mm (0.5 in) of rain, while Hvar receives 28 mm (1.1 in) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Imperia 25°C (76°F) 
    Hvar 26°C (80°F)

Should I visit Imperia or Hvar in the Autumn?

Both Hvar and Imperia during the autumn are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Imperia for the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area during these months. Also, the autumn months attract visitors to Hvar because of the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

Imperia is around the same temperature as Hvar in the autumn. The daily temperature in Imperia averages around 19°C (66°F) in October, and Hvar fluctuates around 18°C (64°F).

In Hvar, it's very sunny this time of the year. In the autumn, Imperia often gets less sunshine than Hvar. Imperia gets 183 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Hvar receives 200 hours of full sun.

Imperia usually gets more rain in October than Hvar. Imperia gets 97 mm (3.8 in) of rain, while Hvar receives 79 mm (3.1 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Imperia 19°C (66°F) 
    Hvar 18°C (64°F)

Should I visit Imperia or Hvar in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Imperia and Hvar. The winter months attract visitors to Imperia 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.

In the winter, Imperia is a little warmer than Hvar. Typically, the winter temperatures in Imperia in January average around 11°C (51°F), and Hvar averages at about 8°C (47°F).

Imperia usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Hvar during winter. Imperia gets 127 hours of sunny skies, while Hvar receives 128 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Imperia usually receives less rain than Hvar. Imperia gets 71 mm (2.8 in) of rain, while Hvar receives 83 mm (3.3 in) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Imperia 11°C (51°F) 
    Hvar 8°C (47°F)

Should I visit Imperia or Hvar in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Imperia as well as Hvar. The natural beauty are the main draw to Imperia this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Hvar for the beaches and the natural beauty.

In April, Imperia is generally around the same temperature as Hvar. Daily temperatures in Imperia average around 15°C (58°F), and Hvar fluctuates around 15°C (59°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Hvar. In the spring, Imperia often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Hvar. Imperia gets 198 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Hvar receives 212 hours of full sun.

Imperia usually gets around the same amount of rain in April as Hvar. Imperia gets 65 mm (2.6 in) of rain, while Hvar receives 66 mm (2.6 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Imperia 15°C (58°F) 
    Hvar 15°C (59°F)

Typical Weather for Hvar and Imperia

Imperia Hvar
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 11°C (51°F) 71 mm (2.8 in) 8°C (47°F) 83 mm (3.3 in)
Feb 11°C (51°F) 73 mm (2.9 in) 9°C (48°F) 68 mm (2.7 in)
Mar 12°C (54°F) 69 mm (2.7 in) 11°C (52°F) 75 mm (3 in)
Apr 15°C (58°F) 65 mm (2.6 in) 15°C (59°F) 66 mm (2.6 in)
May 18°C (64°F) 54 mm (2.1 in) 20°C (67°F) 56 mm (2.2 in)
Jun 21°C (71°F) 33 mm (1.3 in) 23°C (74°F) 51 mm (2 in)
Jul 25°C (76°F) 12 mm (0.5 in) 26°C (80°F) 28 mm (1.1 in)
Aug 25°C (77°F) 34 mm (1.3 in) 26°C (79°F) 50 mm (2 in)
Sep 22°C (72°F) 57 mm (2.2 in) 22°C (72°F) 61 mm (2.4 in)
Oct 19°C (66°F) 97 mm (3.8 in) 18°C (64°F) 79 mm (3.1 in)
Nov 14°C (58°F) 70 mm (2.8 in) 13°C (56°F) 108 mm (4.3 in)
Dec 12°C (53°F) 65 mm (2.6 in) 10°C (49°F) 100 mm (3.9 in)