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

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

Kotor

Kotor is a scenic, beautiful, and charming coastal town. It also offers plenty of small town charm and also has plenty of sights and activities. You'll find world class beauty here as well. It also has a unique and quaint vibe that attracts lots of visitors. And you can't forget about the food, scuba diving and snorkeling, and beaches.

Hvar

Hvar is a historic, beautiful, and vibrant island. This is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. It's also known for food, scuba diving and snorkeling, and beaches.

Kotor and Hvar: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Kotor or Hvar?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Hvar. Although Kotor and Hvar are popular destinations, Hvar has more sights and attractions for tourists. Hvar is very popular for its museums, nightlife, beaches, and shopping, while Kotor attracts visitors for its food, resorts, historical sights, hiking, small town charm, impressive beauty, and quaint atmosphere. Hvar is more touristy than Kotor and is known for its wild parties, beautiful buildings, and world class cuisine. It is also well known for Hvar Fort. Kotor is famous for its medieval old town and its dramatic setting on the coastline surrounded by limestone cliffs.

How is Kotor different from Hvar?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Hvar is very good for its museums and landmarks. However, Kotor 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.

Kotor does not have museums and landmarks.

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

Kotor is renowned for its local cuisine and restaurants. Also, Hvar is not as famous, but is still a good island to visit for its restaurants.

Many restaurants in Kotor have been singled out for their culinary prowess. Food is fresh and hearty, with many dishes including meats, cheeses, and bread. Popular local dishes include börek, black risotto, and pasulj (a type of baked beans prepared with meats and spices). Seafood is an obvious choice around town as well. Ask for whatever is fresh and enjoy a delicious meal. There are also a number of dessert cafes where you can enjoy pastries at a very affordable price.

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 Kotor or Hvar Better for Nightlife?

Hvar is a world-class destination for nightlife. However, Kotor is not particularly known for nightlife and partying.

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.

Kotor doesn't have the most active nightlife scene. It has some of the best nightlife in Montenegro, but outside of the summer months you'll find things are very calm. Head to the old town for the highest concentration of bars and clubs.

Is Kotor or Hvar Better for Resorts?

Kotor is a moderate coastal town for its resorts. However, Hvar is not a resort destination.

Not known for its high-end resorts, Kotor offers a few options. The town has mostly boutique hotels and apartments, particularly if you want to stay in old town.

Hvar is not a resort destination.

Is Kotor or Hvar Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Kotor and Hvar both offer nice scuba diving or snorkeling spots.

It's worth going snorkeling or scuba diving in Kotor. It's possible to book snorkeling trips with a local vendor, or you can pack your own mask and snorkel and venture into the water on your own.

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.

Is Kotor or Hvar Better for Beaches?

Hvar is well known for its beaches. Also, Kotor is still popular, but not quite as popular for the beache.

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.

Kotor has a beach worth visiting. Like many parts of the Mediterranean, the beaches are rocky and pebbly. Many of the beaches are small and quiet, giving them a personal and discovered vibe which many travelers appreciate.

Is Kotor or Hvar Better for its Old Town?

Kotor is renowned for its old town. However, Hvar does not have a historic old town.

The old town of Kotor is one of the most recognized in the world. The city walls and compact historic area make the old town a unique place to explore.

Hvar does not have a historic old town.

Is Kotor or Hvar Better for Hiking?

Kotor 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 Kotor visitors will find world-class hiking trails. The dramatic cliffs and sea views create some of the most beautiful coastal hikes that you'll find. Trails range from walking paths to more strenuous routes like the Ladder of Kotor Hike, which has many switchbacks and stunning views.

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 Kotor or Hvar?

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

Hvar is a great destination for shopping. 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.

Kotor is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Kotor or Hvar Better for Families?

Hvar is well known for its family-friendly activities. Also, Kotor is still popular, but not quite as popular for its kid-friendly activities.

Hvar is 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.

Kotor offers lots of family activities. Kids will enjoy wandering the streets of old town, exploring the city's fortress, or making their way around the city walls. There are a few beaches to explore, but they are a bit rocky. It's also fun to get out on the water on a boat ride.

Is Kotor or Hvar Better for Couples?

Both Kotor and Hvar are superb destinations to visit as a couple.

Couples visit Kotor frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. The charming old town, picturesque views, and quaint personality of the town make this a great couple's get away. Whether you want to lounge on the water's edge or soak up the unique culture, there are many hidden sides to the coastal town.

Hvar is a great coastal town 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 Kotor or Hvar Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Hvar is a world-class destination for backpackers. Also, Kotor is still popular, but not quite as popular for backpackers and budget travelers.

Hvar is a mecca for backpackers and budget travelers. 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.

Many backpackers visit Kotor. The town is affordable and reasonably accessible, making it a great option for backpackers. It's not as touristy as some of the more popular coastal towns in the area, so you can enjoy a bit of authenticity without spending big bucks.

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

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

You'll find some public transit in Hvar, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. Buses are operated by Cazmatrans Hva and they travel between the major municipalities.

Public transit is mostly limited in Kotor. Cars aren't allowed in the old town, but you can travel to nearby town's by bus. Most leave from the town's main bus station with higher frequency during the summer months.

Is Kotor or Hvar a more walkable city?

Kotor is renowned 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.

It is easy to get around Kotor on foot. The old town is best explored on foot.

Hvar is a somewhat walkable coastal town. 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 Kotor Worth Visiting? and Is Hvar Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Hvar or Kotor?

How long in Kotor or Hvar?

It's fun to spend time in either Kotor or Hvar. In our opinion, Hvar has more to see and do, so we recommend spending more time in Hvar than Kotor. In general, 3-4 days is a good amount of time for Kotor, and 2-4 days is enough time in Hvar.

Families should spend more time in Hvar than Kotor. 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.

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

Kotor is a small town where visitors enjoy the scuba diving and snorkeling and food. 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, many people enjoy the food and scuba diving and snorkeling that this party-oriented destination offers. It's also a great beach destination, too. Lots of people come for the nightlife. This island offers a variety of activities to choose from. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it.

A weekend in Kotor or Hvar?

Kotor is a fun place to experience. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than a weekend exploring. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Hvar. For many, it makes a great getaway for a weekend. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. This would be the perfect place to spend a weekend, as it has just the right amount of activities. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision.

Five days in Kotor or Hvar?

Kotor is a small town, so you can explore the area with less time. This coastal town 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 fun place to experience. Travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the destination of Hvar. Lots of people come for the nightlife. You'll find plenty of activities on the beach. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything.

A week in Kotor or Hvar?

Because Kotor is a small town, it's easy to explore in a short amount of time. 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.

You'll find museums and nightlife around the energetic destination of Hvar. Most people come for the beaches. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. Lots of people come for the nightlife. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

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

When comparing the travel costs between Kotor 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 Kotor Expensive? and Is Hvar Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Kotor or Hvar?

Kotor has a larger population, and is about 45% larger than the population of Hvar. When comparing the sizes of Kotor 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 Kotor 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 Kotor or Hvar in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Kotor and Hvar. Many travelers come to Kotor for the beaches, snorkeling, the hiking, 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.

In the summer, Kotor is around the same temperature as Hvar. Typically, the summer temperatures in Kotor in July average around 26°C (80°F), and Hvar averages at about 26°C (80°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Hvar this time of the year. In Kotor, it's very sunny this time of the year. Kotor usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Hvar during summer. Kotor gets 341 hours of sunny skies, while Hvar receives 345 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Kotor usually receives more rain than Hvar. Kotor gets 47 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while Hvar receives 28 mm (1.1 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Kotor or Hvar in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Kotor as well as Hvar. Many visitors come to Kotor in the autumn for the hiking trails, the small town atmosphere, 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, Kotor is generally around the same temperature as Hvar. Daily temperatures in Kotor average around 17°C (63°F), and Hvar fluctuates around 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 Kotor this time of the year. In the autumn, Kotor often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Hvar. Kotor gets 203 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Hvar receives 200 hours of full sun.

Kotor receives a lot of rain in the autumn. Kotor usually gets more rain in October than Hvar. Kotor gets 174 mm (6.9 in) of rain, while Hvar receives 79 mm (3.1 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Kotor or Hvar in the Winter?

Both Hvar and Kotor are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Kotor for the cuisine during these months. Also, the winter months attract visitors to Hvar because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Kotor is cooler than Hvar in the winter. The daily temperature in Kotor averages around 6°C (42°F) in January, and Hvar fluctuates around 8°C (47°F).

Kotor usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Hvar during winter. Kotor gets 121 hours of sunny skies, while Hvar receives 128 hours of full sun in the winter.

It's quite rainy in Kotor. In January, Kotor usually receives more rain than Hvar. Kotor gets 186 mm (7.3 in) of rain, while Hvar receives 83 mm (3.3 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Kotor or Hvar in the Spring?

Both Hvar and Kotor during the spring are popular places to visit. The spring months attract visitors to Kotor because of the beaches, the small town charm, and the natural beauty. Furthermore, the beaches and the natural beauty are the main draw to Hvar this time of year.

In the spring, Kotor is around the same temperature as Hvar. Typically, the spring temperatures in Kotor in April average around 14°C (58°F), and Hvar averages at about 15°C (59°F).

In Hvar, it's very sunny this time of the year. In the spring, Kotor often gets less sunshine than Hvar. Kotor gets 194 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Hvar receives 212 hours of full sun.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Kotor. Kotor usually gets more rain in April than Hvar. Kotor gets 154 mm (6.1 in) of rain, while Hvar receives 66 mm (2.6 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Hvar and Kotor