A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Interlaken vs. Hvar for Hiking, Families, Couples, and Backpackers

Should you visit Interlaken or Hvar?

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

Which city is more affordable and which is best for your travel style? If you're trying to figure out where to go next, comparing the travel costs between Interlaken and Hvar can help you decide which place is right for you.

Interlaken

Interlaken is a stunning, adventurous, and adrenaline-filled town. You'll find world class beauty here as well. This destination also has one of those special and quaint feelings. And you can't forget about the food, hiking, and skiing.

Hvar

Hvar is a historic, beautiful, and vibrant island. This is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. Other reasons to visit include food, scuba diving and snorkeling, and beaches.

Interlaken and Hvar: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Interlaken or Hvar?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Hvar. Although Interlaken and Hvar are popular destinations, Hvar has more sights and attractions for tourists. Hvar is very popular for its museums, nightlife, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, and shopping, while Interlaken attracts visitors for its skiing, hiking, impressive beauty, and quaint atmosphere. Interlaken is famous for its adventure sports, alpine setting, and beautiful lakes. Hvar is famous for its wild parties, beautiful buildings, and world class cuisine. It is also well known for Hvar Fort.

How is Interlaken different from Hvar?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Is Interlaken or Hvar Better for Skiing?

Interlaken is a town with good options for snow skiing. However, Hvar is not a skiing destination.

For winter sports and skiing, Interlaken is a great destination to visit. While the city itself has no skiing, there is access to several ski areas in Jungfrau. There are several different resorts in the area near Grindelwald, Wengen, and Mürren. You'll need to take a train or ski bus to get most places.

Hvar is not a skiing destination.

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

Hvar is very good for its museums and history. However, Interlaken does not have museums and landmarks.

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.

Interlaken does not have museums and landmarks.

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

Foodies will find both Interlaken and Hvar both to be superb destinations.

The food selection at local restaurants is excellent in Interlaken. Restaurants in the area serve local classics like fondue, local meats, cheeses, and chocolate. You can finish your meal off with strudel or head to a local bakery and try their samplings. Meals are expensive but the quality is good. You should also out into the countryside and enjoy a meal looking out over the mountains.

Eating is part of the travel experience when you visit 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.

Is Interlaken or Hvar Better for Nightlife?

Hvar is a world-class destination for nightlife. However, Interlaken is not a destination with noteworthy nightlife.

People head to Hvar just to party. 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.

Interlaken is not a destination with noteworthy nightlife.

Is Interlaken or Hvar Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Hvar is very good for the nearby scuba diving and snorkeling. However, Interlaken is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

It's worth going snorkeling or scuba diving 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.

Interlaken is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Interlaken or Hvar Better for Beaches?

Hvar is an excellent place to visit for its beaches. However, Interlaken is not a beach destination.

Hvar is a very popular place to visit for its 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.

Interlaken is not a beach destination.

Is Interlaken or Hvar Better for Hiking?

Interlaken is renowned for the nearby hiking options. Also, Hvar is not as famous, but is still a good island to visit for its hiking trails.

Around Interlaken visitors will find world-class hiking trails. Hikes in the area range from easy to challenging with every option in between. You can experience beautiful waterfalls, breathtaking views, and dramatic ridge hikes. Several of the best hikes in the area include Schynige Platte Ridge Trail, Mt Niesen Panorama Trail, and Giessbach Waterfalls.

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.

Is the Shopping Better in Interlaken or Hvar?

Hvar is very good for shopping. However, Interlaken is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

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.

Interlaken is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Interlaken or Hvar Better for Families?

Interlaken is renowned for its family-friendly activities. Also, Hvar is not as famous, but is still a good island to visit for its kid-friendly activities.

Interlaken is an extremely popular town to visit for families. While the city is beautiful, it's really the surrounding areas that you and your family will enjoy. There are amazing hikes, stunning views, playgrounds, lakes, and more. There's also an impressive ropes course that adventurous kids will love, funiculars, gondolas, and so many water sports!

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.

Is Interlaken or Hvar Better for Couples?

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

Interlaken is a great town for couples, as it has plenty to offer. The mountaintop views, breathtaking hikes, and beautiful lakes make this a top destination for couples. Make sure you head out of town and fully immerse yourself in everything that the area has to offer. Kayaking, canoeing, paragliding, and more will make this a trip of a lifetime.

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 Interlaken or Hvar Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Hvar is a world-class destination for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Interlaken 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.

It's common for backpackers to visit Interlaken. It's a world class destination with so many activities that backpackers will love, but it's also one of the most expensive areas in one of the most expensive countries. There are hostels in town as well as a few in the nearby towns and countryside, but prices are steep. Cook when you can and enjoy all of the free activities that the area has to offer.

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

Interlaken 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 Interlaken can get you to some places easily. Buses travel around town, but to get into the mountains there are trains, cog railways, funiculars, and gondolas.

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

Is Interlaken or Hvar a more walkable city?

Interlaken and Hvar are nice when it comes to walkability.

Interlaken is somewhat walkable. The old town is relatively walkable.

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.

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

Should I spend more time in Hvar or Interlaken?

How long in Interlaken or Hvar?

It's fun to spend time in either Interlaken or Hvar. Generally, people tend to spend more time in Interlaken due to the larger number of activities and things to do. Usually, 2-5 days is a good amount of time for Interlaken, and 2-4 days is enough time in Hvar.

Families should spend more time in Interlaken than Hvar. Because of the many family-friendly attractions and fun things to do for kids in Interlaken, it's a great place to visit with the whole family.

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

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

Visitors enjoy the food and skiing when visiting the destination of Interlaken. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything.

With food and scuba diving and snorkeling around the historic 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 Interlaken or Hvar?

Interlaken is a fun place to experience. Most people visit for the hiking. If you have a weekend, this is a great place to go. Hikers are also drawn to this area. 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 Interlaken or Hvar?

Visitors enjoy the food and skiing when visiting the adrenaline-filled destination of Interlaken. This town offers something for everyone. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. Plenty of people spend five days in the area when traveling. Five days is often enough time to do most activities.

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 Interlaken or Hvar?

The breathtaking town of Interlaken offers skiing and food. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. 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 One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Geneva, The Best 10-Day Tours from Zurich, 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 Interlaken and Hvar, we can see that Interlaken 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 Interlaken would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Interlaken 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 Interlaken Expensive? and Is Hvar Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Interlaken or Hvar?

Interlaken has a larger population, and is about 37% larger than the population of Hvar. When comparing the sizes of Interlaken 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 Interlaken 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 Interlaken or Hvar in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Interlaken as well as Hvar. Many travelers come to Interlaken for the hiking and the family-friendly experiences. Additionally, many visitors come to Hvar in the summer for the beaches, snorkeling, the hiking, and the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Interlaken is cooler than Hvar. Typically, the summer temperatures in Interlaken in July average around 21°C (70°F), and Hvar averages at about 26°C (80°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Hvar. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Interlaken this time of the year. In the summer, Interlaken often gets less sunshine than Hvar. Interlaken gets 241 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Hvar receives 345 hours of full sun.

Interlaken usually gets more rain in July than Hvar. Interlaken gets 89 mm (3.5 in) of rain, while Hvar receives 28 mm (1.1 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Interlaken or Hvar in the Autumn?

Both Hvar and Interlaken are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Interlaken in the autumn for the hiking trails and the natural beauty of the area. Also, most visitors come to Hvar for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area during these months.

In October, Interlaken is generally cooler than Hvar. Daily temperatures in Interlaken average around 13°C (56°F), and Hvar fluctuates around 18°C (64°F).

It's quite sunny in Hvar. Interlaken usually receives less sunshine than Hvar during autumn. Interlaken gets 120 hours of sunny skies, while Hvar receives 200 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Interlaken usually receives less rain than Hvar. Interlaken gets 70 mm (2.8 in) of rain, while Hvar receives 79 mm (3.1 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Interlaken or Hvar in the Winter?

Both Hvar and Interlaken during the winter are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Interlaken for the skiing and the cuisine during these months. Also, the winter months attract visitors to Hvar because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Interlaken can be very cold during winter. Interlaken is much colder than Hvar in the winter. The daily temperature in Interlaken averages around 3°C (37°F) in January, and Hvar fluctuates around 8°C (47°F).

In the winter, Interlaken often gets less sunshine than Hvar. Interlaken gets 55 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Hvar receives 128 hours of full sun.

Interlaken usually gets less rain in January than Hvar. Interlaken gets 77 mm (3 in) of rain, while Hvar receives 83 mm (3.3 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Interlaken or Hvar in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Interlaken and Hvar. The spring months attract visitors to Interlaken because of the natural beauty. Also, the beaches and the natural beauty are the main draw to Hvar this time of year.

In the spring, Interlaken is cooler than Hvar. Typically, the spring temperatures in Interlaken in April average around 12°C (53°F), and Hvar averages at about 15°C (59°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Hvar this time of the year. Interlaken usually receives less sunshine than Hvar during spring. Interlaken gets 150 hours of sunny skies, while Hvar receives 212 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Interlaken usually receives more rain than Hvar. Interlaken gets 79 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 Interlaken