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

Should you visit Inverness 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 Inverness and Hvar can help you decide which place is right for you.

Inverness

Inverness is a cultural, traditional, and local city. It's a very nice small town not to be missed. And you can't forget about the nightlife, food, and shopping.

Hvar

Hvar is a historic, beautiful, and vibrant island. The beauty of this spot is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. And you can't forget about the hiking, shopping, and museums.

Inverness and Hvar: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Home to Loch Ness
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 Inverness or Hvar?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Hvar than Inverness, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Hvar is better known for its nightlife, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, hiking, and impressive beauty, while Inverness is more popular for its museums, shopping, and small town charm. Hvar is more touristy than Inverness and is known for its wild parties, beautiful buildings, and world class cuisine. Also, Hvar is famous for Hvar Fort. Inverness is well known for its surrounding countryside, but also its regional heritage, local festivals and proximity to the famous Loch Ness.

How is Inverness different from Hvar?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Inverness
Hvar

Inverness is notable for its sights and museums. Also, Hvar is not as famous, but is still a good island to visit for its museums and history.

You'll find a good number of museums and monuments packed into Inverness. As a city rich in culture and heritage, you'll find a number of sights and museums in town. Check out the Highland House of Fraser, Culloden Moor, and Clava Cairns.

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.


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

Inverness
Hvar

Local dishes at restaurants are fun to try in both Inverness and Hvar.

Eating is part of the travel experience when you visit Inverness. The city makes a great spot to fill your belly after a few days exploring the Scottish Highlands. You'll find local restaurants that serve up regional specialties, and when the weather's nice, there are some spots with outdoor seating.

Hvar has a number of nationally recognized food spots and restaurants. 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 Inverness or Hvar Better for Nightlife?

Inverness
Hvar

Hvar is terrific for nightlife and partying. Also, Inverness is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its evening party scene.

Hvar is a must-see 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 Inverness. Nightlife isn't the first thing that comes to mind with this town, but there are actually lots of distilleries in the area and there's a surprising number of high quality bars and pubs that make for a fun evening.

Is Inverness or Hvar Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Inverness
Hvar

Hvar is very good for its diving and snorkeling. However, Inverness 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.

Inverness is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.


Is Inverness or Hvar Better for Beaches?

Inverness
Hvar

Hvar is a well-known place for the beache. However, Inverness 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.

Inverness is not a beach destination.

Is Inverness or Hvar Better for Hiking?

Inverness
Hvar

Hvar is very good for the nearby hiking options. However, Inverness is not a hiking destination.

Many people include a hike when visiting 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.

Inverness is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Inverness or Hvar?

Inverness
Hvar

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

Inverness is a popular shopping destination with plenty of stores. The town is at the cultural heart of the Scottish Highlands you'll find plenty of local shops where you can pick up local products. Make sure you check out the Inverness Victorian 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 Inverness or Hvar Better for Families?

Inverness
Hvar

Hvar is a well-known place for its family-friendly activities. Also, Inverness is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its kid-friendly activities.

Hvar is a very kid-friendly island. 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.

Inverness is a family-friendly city. The city has some parks and activities that are great for kids. Make sure you explore Inverness Castle and the Inverness Mystery Treasure Trail.

Is Inverness or Hvar Better for Couples?

Inverness
Hvar

Hvar is a well-known place for its romantic activities. Also, Inverness is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit 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.

Inverness is a good city for couples to visit. Located in the Scottish Highlands, there ae many scenic spots and nice activities that couples can enjoy in the area.

Is Inverness or Hvar Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Inverness
Hvar

Hvar is terrific for backpackers. However, Inverness is not a good city for backpackers and budget travelers.

Backpackers and budget travelers come from all over the world to visit 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.

Inverness is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. There a some hostels and student hotels, but this isn't one of the major backpacker spots in the UK.


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

Inverness
Hvar

Hvar is very good for its public transit. However, Inverness is not a good city for times when you don't have a car.

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

Public transit is mostly limited in Inverness. There are local buses that pass through the town.

Is Inverness or Hvar a more walkable city?

Inverness
Hvar

Inverness 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.

Inverness is a very walkable city. It's compact enough that you can explore much of the town on foot.

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 Inverness Worth Visiting? and Is Hvar Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Hvar or Inverness?

How long in Inverness or Hvar?

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

Families should spend more time in Hvar than Inverness. 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 Inverness. 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 Inverness 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 Inverness or Hvar? Ideal Length of Stay
    Inverness 1-3 
    Hvar 2-4

One day in Inverness or Hvar?

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

You'll find nightlife and food around the island of Hvar. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.


A weekend in Inverness or Hvar?

Inverness 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.

You'll find food and scuba diving and snorkeling around the party-oriented destination of Hvar. People usually spend lots of time at the beach. This is a popular place to visit for a weekend.A weekend should give you a good understanding of everything this island has to offer. This island offers a variety of activities to choose from.

Five days in Inverness or Hvar?

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

Travelers enjoy the scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping when visiting the beautiful island of Hvar. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. It's also a great beach destination, too. Most people head to the area for the nightlife. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

A week in Inverness or Hvar?

The historic city of Inverness 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.

Hvar is a popular choice for travelers. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. 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 will give you the chance to have new experiences.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from London, The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Edinburgh, The Best One Week (7-Day) Tours in Croatia, and The Best 2-Week Tours in Croatia.


Which place is cheaper, Hvar or Inverness?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Inverness is £168, while the average daily cost in Hvar is £88. 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 Inverness and Hvar in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Inverness £91
    Hvar £33
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Inverness £182
    Hvar £66
Compare Hotels in Inverness and Hvar

Looking for a hotel in Inverness 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 Inverness


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: Inverness Hotel Prices and Hvar Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Inverness £33
    Hvar £41

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Inverness

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Inverness:

  • Inverness Airport (INV) to Lecht Ski Resort - Arrival Transfer: $33
  • Inverness Airport (INV) to Glenshee Ski Resort - Arrival Transfer: $66
  • Arrival Private Transfer from Inverness INV to Inverness City by luxury vehicle: $105
  • Inverness Airport to Glenshee Ski Resort - Round-Trip Transfer: $131
  • Transfers / Tour from , inverness, Edinburgh ,Glasgow ,Aberdeen : $184
  • Inverness Private Transfer to Aviemore: $229
  • Inverness to Fort William Direct transfer: $374
  • Inverness to Isle of Skye Direct transfer: $623
  • Inverness to Glasgow Direct transfer: $781
  • Inverness to Edinburgh Direct transfer: $781

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 Inverness or Hvar?

Prices for flights to both Hvar and Inverness 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
    Inverness £49
    Hvar £33

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.
    Inverness £44
    Hvar £6.46

Tours and Activities in Inverness

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

  • City Discovery App-Based Self-Guided Audio Tour: $5.99
  • City Sightseeing Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Tour: $15
  • Inverness City Daily Walking Tour (11:30am, 2pm & 5:30pm): $15
  • Guided Walking Tour with a Local: $17
  • SEA LIFE Loch Lomond General Admission Ticket: $20
  • Northern Highlights Sightseeing Pass: $25
  • Loch Ness 1-Hour Cruise with Urquhart Castle Views: $27
  • Loch Ness and Caledonian Canal 2-Hour Cruise from Dochgarroch: $38
  • Glenaladale Cruise - Great for wizard spotting!: $38
  • Inverness Bike Tour a 2 hours guided bike tour around the Waterways of Inverness: $39
  • Gaskan cruise - Golden Eagles!: $44
  • Puffin Tour: $57

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
    Inverness £23
    Hvar £7.92

Sample the Local Flavors in Inverness

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

  • From Invergordon Port Dunrobin Castle, Clynelish Distillery Tour : $203
  • Speyside Distillery Tour From Inverness: $1,124

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 we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Inverness and Hvar, we can see that Inverness 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 Inverness would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Inverness 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 Inverness Expensive? and Is Hvar Expensive?.


Which is Bigger, Inverness or Hvar?

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

Both Hvar and Inverness are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Inverness for the small town charm and the family-friendly experiences. Also, many visitors come to Hvar in the summer for the beaches, snorkeling, the hiking, and the family-friendly experiences.

Inverness is much colder than Hvar in the summer. The daily temperature in Inverness averages around 14°C (58°F) in July, and Hvar fluctuates around 26°C (80°F).

It's quite sunny in Hvar. Inverness usually receives less sunshine than Hvar during summer. Inverness gets 147 hours of sunny skies, while Hvar receives 345 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Inverness usually receives more rain than Hvar. Inverness gets 55 mm (2.2 in) of rain, while Hvar receives 28 mm (1.1 in) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Inverness 14°C (58°F) 
    Hvar 26°C (80°F)

Should I visit Inverness or Hvar in the Autumn?

Both Hvar and Inverness during the autumn are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Inverness in the autumn for the shopping scene and the small town atmosphere. Furthermore, most visitors come to Hvar for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area during these months.

In the autumn, Inverness is much colder than Hvar. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Inverness in October average around 9°C (49°F), and Hvar averages at about 18°C (64°F).

In Hvar, it's very sunny this time of the year. In the autumn, Inverness often gets less sunshine than Hvar. Inverness gets 84 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Hvar receives 200 hours of full sun.

Inverness usually gets less rain in October than Hvar. Inverness gets 56 mm (2.2 in) of rain, while Hvar receives 79 mm (3.1 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Inverness 9°C (49°F) 
    Hvar 18°C (64°F)

Should I visit Inverness or Hvar in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Inverness and Hvar. Most visitors come to Inverness for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months. Furthermore, the winter months attract visitors to Hvar because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Inverness can be very cold during winter. In January, Inverness is generally much colder than Hvar. Daily temperatures in Inverness average around 3°C (38°F), and Hvar fluctuates around 8°C (47°F).

Inverness usually receives less sunshine than Hvar during winter. Inverness gets 42 hours of sunny skies, while Hvar receives 128 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Inverness usually receives less rain than Hvar. Inverness gets 53 mm (2.1 in) of rain, while Hvar receives 83 mm (3.3 in) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Inverness 3°C (38°F) 
    Hvar 8°C (47°F)

Should I visit Inverness or Hvar in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Inverness as well as Hvar. The spring months attract visitors to Inverness because of the small town charm. Additionally, the beaches and the natural beauty are the main draw to Hvar this time of year.

Inverness is much colder than Hvar in the spring. The daily temperature in Inverness averages around 7°C (44°F) in April, and Hvar fluctuates around 15°C (59°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Hvar. In the spring, Inverness often gets less sunshine than Hvar. Inverness gets 136 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Hvar receives 212 hours of full sun.

Inverness usually gets less rain in April than Hvar. Inverness gets 36 mm (1.4 in) of rain, while Hvar receives 66 mm (2.6 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Inverness 7°C (44°F) 
    Hvar 15°C (59°F)

Typical Weather for Hvar and Inverness

Inverness Hvar
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 3°C (38°F) 53 mm (2.1 in) 8°C (47°F) 83 mm (3.3 in)
Feb 3°C (38°F) 39 mm (1.5 in) 9°C (48°F) 68 mm (2.7 in)
Mar 5°C (41°F) 46 mm (1.8 in) 11°C (52°F) 75 mm (3 in)
Apr 7°C (44°F) 36 mm (1.4 in) 15°C (59°F) 66 mm (2.6 in)
May 10°C (50°F) 46 mm (1.8 in) 20°C (67°F) 56 mm (2.2 in)
Jun 13°C (55°F) 49 mm (1.9 in) 23°C (74°F) 51 mm (2 in)
Jul 14°C (58°F) 55 mm (2.2 in) 26°C (80°F) 28 mm (1.1 in)
Aug 14°C (57°F) 71 mm (2.8 in) 26°C (79°F) 50 mm (2 in)
Sep 12°C (54°F) 58 mm (2.3 in) 22°C (72°F) 61 mm (2.4 in)
Oct 9°C (49°F) 56 mm (2.2 in) 18°C (64°F) 79 mm (3.1 in)
Nov 5°C (42°F) 62 mm (2.4 in) 13°C (56°F) 108 mm (4.3 in)
Dec 4°C (39°F) 52 mm (2 in) 10°C (49°F) 100 mm (3.9 in)