A Travel Price Comparison for Croatia Korcula vs. Hvar for Nightlife, Backpackers, Food, and Beaches

Should you visit Korcula or Hvar?

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

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

Korcula

Korcula is a scenic, laid back, and historic island. The beauty of this spot is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. And you can't forget about the shopping, museums, and food.

Hvar

Hvar is a vibrant, energetic, and party-oriented island. The beauty of this spot is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. And you can't forget about the shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Korcula and Hvar: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Good scuba and snorkeling destination
  • Popular beach
  • Scenic old town
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for students
  • Impressive beauty
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 Korcula or Hvar?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Korcula than Hvar, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Korcula is better known for its historical sights and hiking, while Hvar is more popular for its nightlife. Hvar is more touristy than Korcula and is known for its wild parties, beautiful buildings, and world class cuisine. Korcula is well known for its small old town and its beautiful natural setting. Also, Korcula is famous for St Mark's Cathedral.

How is Korcula different from Hvar?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Korcula
Hvar

Plenty of people visit the notable sights and museums in both Korcula and Hvar.

Korcula offers a variety of museums and landmarks to choose from. Most of the sights are concentrated in Korcula Town, which has a charming old town that is filled with stone houses. In the center of the old town is St Mark's Cathedral. Other points of interest include Abbey Treasury and Marco Polo's House.

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 Korcula or Hvar? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Korcula
Hvar

There are opportunities to sample the local cuisine at great restaurants in both Korcula and Hvar.

Eating is part of the travel experience when you visit Korcula. Food is a way of life on the island, and you'll likely enjoy bread, salad, soup, and grilled meat or seafood at most meals. The ingredients are locally produced and fresh.

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 Korcula or Hvar Better for Nightlife?

Korcula
Hvar

Hvar is renowned for nightlife and partying. However, Korcula is a island with minimal options for its evening party scene.

Hvar is a destination that you simply have to visit at least once for nightlife. 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.

Korcula doesn't have the most active nightlife scene. The party scene is lacking in the old town, so this isn't the place to visit for nightlife. Many of the restaurants become cocktail bars at night, and there is a club or two that has opened in recent years.

Is Korcula or Hvar Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Korcula
Hvar

Both Korcula and Hvar offer notable scuba diving or snorkeling.

It's fun to get in the water and check out the local marine life in Korcula. There are a few snorkeling tours that leave from the island.

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.


Is Korcula or Hvar Better for Beaches?

Korcula
Hvar

Both Korcula and Hvar are considered to be great beach destinations.

The beaches at Korcula attract visitors from all over. There are a number of beautiful beaches around the island. Head south for the sandier beaches and north for the pebbly, shallower beaches. Many people think that Lumbarda has the best beaches on the island.

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.

Is Korcula or Hvar Better for its Old Town?

Korcula
Hvar

Korcula is notable for its old town. However, Hvar does not have a historic old town.

Korcula is an extremely popular place to visit the historic old town area. The charming old town is filled with interesting buildings and historic streets that you can explore.

Hvar does not have a historic old town.

Is Korcula or Hvar Better for Hiking?

Korcula
Hvar

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

Korcula is a popular spot for hiking. There are many natural and hiking areas on the island so you can enjoy a full day hike or a shorter stroll through the area.

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 Korcula or Hvar?

Korcula
Hvar

Shopping is a popular activity in both Hvar and Korcula.

Korcula offers some nice shopping areas. You'll find boutiques, small retail shops, or stores selling knick knacks around town.

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 Korcula or Hvar Better for Families?

Korcula
Hvar

Both Korcula and Hvar are great to visit with kids.

Korcula is a very kid-friendly island. The island has many great hikes that are appropriate for all ages. There are also pebbly beaches where the kids can play in the water and explore.

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 Korcula or Hvar Better for Couples?

Korcula
Hvar

Both Korcula and Hvar are great destinations for a couple's getaway.

Couples visit Korcula frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. The beautiful old town, striking coastline, and wonderful natural beauty make for a great honeymoon or romantic escape. There are many nice hikes in the area and the beaches are nice for cooling off.

Hvar is a great island if you're traveling as 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 Korcula or Hvar Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Korcula
Hvar

Hvar is renowned for backpackers. Also, Korcula is still popular, but not quite as popular 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.

Plenty of backpackers visit Korcula. You'll find enough hostels around the island to choose from and there are usually plenty of backpackers hanging out.

Is Korcula or Hvar Better for Students?

Korcula
Hvar

Korcula is a island with good options for students. However, Hvar is not popular with students.

Korcula is a good island to visit for students. More students have been moving to the island, and you'll find a growing student population.

Hvar is not popular with students.

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

Korcula
Hvar

You'll find somewhat comparable public transit options in both Korcula and Hvar.

You'll find some public transit in Korcula, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. There are buses around the island but not all routes are very frequent.

While Hvar offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. Buses are operated by Cazmatrans Hva and they travel between the major municipalities.


Is Korcula or Hvar a more walkable city?

Korcula
Hvar

Korcula and Hvar both are notable when exploring on foot.

Korcula is a somewhat walkable place. There are foot paths and trails all over the island but you'll want to rent a bike if you're going long distances.

Hvar is a somewhat walkable island. 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 Korcula Worth Visiting? and Is Hvar Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Hvar or Korcula?

How long in Korcula or Hvar?

It's fun to spend time in either Korcula or Hvar. Generally, people tend to spend more time in Hvar due to the larger number of activities and things to do. Usually, 2-3 days is a good amount of time for Korcula, and 2-4 days is enough time in Hvar.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Hvar than Korcula 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 Korcula or Hvar? Ideal Length of Stay
    Korcula 2-3 
    Hvar 2-4

One day in Korcula or Hvar?

Visitors enjoy the scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping when visiting the destination of Korcula. 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.

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 Korcula or Hvar?

Korcula is a fun place to experience. If you have a weekend, this is a great place to go. It's also a great beach destination, too. 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 Korcula or Hvar?

You'll find museums and food around the historic destination of Korcula. This island offers something for everyone. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. 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 Korcula or Hvar?

The historic island of Korcula offers food and scuba diving and snorkeling. 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.

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 2-Week Tours from Dubrovnik, The Best 2-Week Tours from Split, The Best Family-Friendly Tours to Croatia, and The Best Hiking & Trekking Tours in Croatia.


Which place is cheaper, Hvar or Korcula?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Korcula is $96, while the average daily cost in Hvar is $109. 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 Korcula and Hvar in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Korcula $62
    Hvar $40
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Korcula $124
    Hvar $80
Compare Hotels in Korcula and Hvar

Looking for a hotel in Korcula 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 Korcula


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: Korcula Hotel Prices and Hvar Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Korcula $1.50
    Hvar $50

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Korcula

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Korcula:

  • Island Stupe / Moro Beach Transfer: $26
  • Private One Way Transfer from Orebić to Dubrovnik: $204

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Hvar

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Hvar:

  • Speedboat Transfer from Hvar Town to Split Airport: $532

Is it cheaper to fly into Korcula or Hvar?

Prices for flights to both Hvar and Korcula 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
    Korcula $30
    Hvar $41

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Korcula

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

  • Private Half-Day Cooking Workshop Gastronomy in Korcula: $87
  • Korcula walking tour and dinner for Food Lovers: $227
  • Korčula: Island Yacht Cruise with Wine Tasting and Dinner: $319

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: $179
  • Hvar Hidden Gems Tour with Lunch or Dinner: $186
  • Hvar Hidden Gems Small Group Half Day Tour with Lunch or Dinner: $201
  • Hvar Abandoned Village Tour with Local Dinner: $213
  • Private Hvar Wine Tasting Tour with Traditional Dinner: $233
  • Food Tour: Traditional Flavours and Food Sampling on Hvar: $261
  • Hvar Small Group Wine Tour and Authentic Dalmatian Dinner: $271
  • The Best of Hvar in a Day with Wine tasting and Local Dinner: $271

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Korcula $12
    Hvar $7.99

Tours and Activities in Korcula

Here are a few actual costs in Korcula for available activities, ticket prices, and tours:

  • Semi-Submarine Tour: $21
  • Private Korcula Eco Tour with Guide: $27
  • Korčula: 3 Island Hop-on Hop-off Tour Daily Ticket: $32
  • 3 Islands Tour - HopOnHopOff - Daily Ticket : $33
  • Half day Lago di Korcula Half-Day Sea Kayak Tour: $64
  • Bits of History - Half day kayak Tour: $65
  • Small-Group Lumbarda Sunset and Evening Kayaking Experience: $65
  • Lumbarda: Half-Day Kayaking and History Tour: $66
  • Lumbarda: Sunset Kayak Tour: $66
  • Korčula for Early Risers and Coffee Lovers Private Walking Tour: $69
  • 1 Hour Private Walking Tour in Korcula : $75
  • Korčula & Pelješac: Wine & Culture Experience from Dubrovnik: $80

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
  • 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
  • Split: Hvar, Brač, and Pakleni Cruise with Lunch and Drinks: $64
  • Half-day kayak tour from Hvar town: $65
  • Romantic Sunset Sailing Experience On A Comfort Yacht: $69
  • Hvar Self Guided E-bike Tour: $69
  • Sunset Kayak Tour in Hvar Town, Croatia: $70
  • Private Hvar Walking Tour: $70
  • Hvar Island Self-Guided E-Bike Tour: $70

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Korcula $10
    Hvar $9.80

Sample the Local Flavors in Korcula

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

  • Wine Tasting at Black Island Winery: $30
  • Slurp of Grk Wine Tour: $91
  • Day Tour from Dubrovnik - Korčula and Pelješac Wine Tasting: $92
  • Wine Tour Korcula: $98
  • Half-Day Bike Tour in Lumbarda with Wine Tasting: $104
  • Korcula Bike & Wine Tour: $110
  • Private Korcula wine tour and tasting : $130
  • Wine tour Korčula - private tour: $145
  • Enchanted Forest Hike and Wine Tasting Private Tour: $157
  • Korcula Island Sightseeing Tour Including Wine Tasting: $185

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: $117
  • Hvar Wine tasting small group experience: $130
  • Private Hvar Wine Tasting Tour : $141
  • Wine Tasting Tour: $156
  • Chocolate and Wine Tasting Small Group Tour from Hvar: $174


When comparing the travel costs between Korcula and Hvar, we can see that Hvar 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 Korcula Expensive? and Is Hvar Expensive?.


Which is Bigger, Korcula or Hvar?

Hvar has a larger population, and is about 17% larger than the population of Korcula. When comparing the sizes of Korcula 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 Korcula 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 Korcula or Hvar in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Korcula and Hvar. The summer months attract visitors to Korcula because of the beaches, snorkeling, the hiking, and the family-friendly experiences. Furthermore, the beaches, snorkeling, the hiking, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Hvar this time of year.

Korcula is around the same temperature as Hvar in the summer. The daily temperature in Korcula averages around 26°C (80°F) in July, and Hvar fluctuates around 26°C (80°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Hvar this time of the year. In Korcula, it's very sunny this time of the year. Korcula usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Hvar during summer. Korcula gets 345 hours of sunny skies, while Hvar receives 345 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Korcula usually receives around the same amount of rain as Hvar. Korcula gets 28 mm (1.1 in) of rain, while Hvar receives 28 mm (1.1 in) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Korcula 26°C (80°F) 
    Hvar 26°C (80°F)

Should I visit Korcula or Hvar in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Korcula as well as Hvar. The hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Korcula this time of year. Additionally, many travelers come to Hvar for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

In the autumn, Korcula is around the same temperature as Hvar. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Korcula in October average around 18°C (64°F), and Hvar averages at about 18°C (64°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Hvar. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Korcula this time of the year. In the autumn, Korcula often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Hvar. Korcula gets 200 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Hvar receives 200 hours of full sun.

Korcula usually gets around the same amount of rain in October as Hvar. Korcula gets 79 mm (3.1 in) of rain, while Hvar receives 79 mm (3.1 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Korcula 18°C (64°F) 
    Hvar 18°C (64°F)

Should I visit Korcula or Hvar in the Winter?

Both Hvar and Korcula are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Korcula for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, many visitors come to Hvar in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

In January, Korcula is generally around the same temperature as Hvar. Daily temperatures in Korcula average around 8°C (47°F), and Hvar fluctuates around 8°C (47°F).

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

In January, Korcula usually receives around the same amount of rain as Hvar. Korcula gets 83 mm (3.3 in) of rain, while Hvar receives 83 mm (3.3 in) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Korcula 8°C (47°F) 
    Hvar 8°C (47°F)

Should I visit Korcula or Hvar in the Spring?

Both Hvar and Korcula during the spring are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Korcula in the spring for the beaches and the natural beauty. Also, most visitors come to Hvar for the beaches and the natural beauty during these months.

Korcula is around the same temperature as Hvar in the spring. The daily temperature in Korcula averages around 15°C (59°F) in April, and Hvar fluctuates around 15°C (59°F).

In Hvar, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Korcula. In the spring, Korcula often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Hvar. Korcula gets 212 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Hvar receives 212 hours of full sun.

Korcula usually gets around the same amount of rain in April as Hvar. Korcula gets 66 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
    Korcula 15°C (59°F) 
    Hvar 15°C (59°F)

Typical Weather for Hvar and Korcula

Korcula Hvar
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 8°C (47°F) 83 mm (3.3 in) 8°C (47°F) 83 mm (3.3 in)
Feb 9°C (48°F) 68 mm (2.7 in) 9°C (48°F) 68 mm (2.7 in)
Mar 11°C (52°F) 75 mm (3 in) 11°C (52°F) 75 mm (3 in)
Apr 15°C (59°F) 66 mm (2.6 in) 15°C (59°F) 66 mm (2.6 in)
May 20°C (67°F) 56 mm (2.2 in) 20°C (67°F) 56 mm (2.2 in)
Jun 23°C (74°F) 51 mm (2 in) 23°C (74°F) 51 mm (2 in)
Jul 26°C (80°F) 28 mm (1.1 in) 26°C (80°F) 28 mm (1.1 in)
Aug 26°C (79°F) 50 mm (2 in) 26°C (79°F) 50 mm (2 in)
Sep 22°C (72°F) 61 mm (2.4 in) 22°C (72°F) 61 mm (2.4 in)
Oct 18°C (64°F) 79 mm (3.1 in) 18°C (64°F) 79 mm (3.1 in)
Nov 13°C (56°F) 108 mm (4.3 in) 13°C (56°F) 108 mm (4.3 in)
Dec 10°C (49°F) 100 mm (3.9 in) 10°C (49°F) 100 mm (3.9 in)