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

Should you visit La Rochelle or Hvar?

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

Should I visit La Rochelle 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.

La Rochelle

La Rochelle is a peaceful, relaxing, and laid-back coastal town. This is a great small town that is just waiting to be explored. And you can't forget about the shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Hvar

Hvar is a party-oriented, historic, and beautiful island. The beauty of this spot is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. Visitors also love the nightlife, food, and scuba diving and snorkeling.

La Rochelle and Hvar: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in La Rochelle or Hvar?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Hvar than La Rochelle, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Hvar is better known for its nightlife, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, and impressive beauty, while La Rochelle is more popular for its museums, food, historical sights, and small town charm. Hvar is more touristy than La Rochelle and is popular for its wild parties, beautiful buildings, and world class cuisine. Also, Hvar is famous for Hvar Fort. La Rochelle is well known for its medieval towers, maritime history, and beautiful setting.

How is La Rochelle different from Hvar?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in La Rochelle or Hvar?

La Rochelle 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 La Rochelle. Filled with history, the town itself is like a living museum. Within town there are many sights such as the Vieux Port, La Rochelle Aquarium, Musée d'Histoire Naturelle, and Musée du Nouveau Monde de La Rochelle.

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 La Rochelle or Hvar? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

La Rochelle 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 La Rochelle have been singled out for their culinary prowess. It may be small, but its filled with delicious cafes, bistros, and local restaurants. Seafood is the obvious choice in this coastal town and many visitors head to Vieux Port to eat, as many restaurants there offer waterfront views. If you want something a little less touristy, head to the St. Nicolas District, which was the town's former fishing district. Rue de la Fourche is also a charming road with many places to grab a bite or a drink. Or head to Rue St Jean-du-Perot, which is just off the old port.

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 La Rochelle or Hvar Better for Nightlife?

Hvar is very popular for nightlife and partying. Also, La Rochelle is not as popular, but is still a nice coastal town for its evening party scene.

Hvar is a party destination, and you'll find plenty of activity all night long. 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.

There's a variety of activities in the evening in La Rochelle. While it's known as a peaceful, seaside town, you'll still find wine bars, pubs, and even a club or two around town.

Is La Rochelle or Hvar Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Hvar is a popular place for its diving and snorkeling. However, La Rochelle 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.

La Rochelle is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is La Rochelle or Hvar Better for Beaches?

Hvar is great for the beache. Also, La Rochelle is not as popular, but is still a nice coastal town for the beach.

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.

Many people head to La Rochelle to enjoy the beach. There are three main beaches in town that each attract a crowd on warm summer days. Plage de la Concurrence, Plage Chef de Baie, and Plage des Minimes are the closest beaches to La Rochelle, and they are popular for sunbathing and water sports. They have a mix of sand, pebbles, and cliffside views that attract locals and tourists alike.

Is La Rochelle or Hvar Better for its Old Town?

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

The old town of La Rochelle is one of the most recognized in the world. The old town is filled with wandering cobblestone streets, charming squares, and cafes that spill into the street.

Hvar does not have a historic old town.

Is La Rochelle or Hvar Better for Hiking?

If you're looking to go hiking, La Rochelle and Hvar both have notable trails.

La Rochelle is a good destination for hiking. There are many coastal walks just outside of town that take you along the scenic coastline. It's beautiful to stroll through the countryside and pass through many quaint villages.

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.

Is the Shopping Better in La Rochelle or Hvar?

If you're looking to go shopping, La Rochelle and Hvar both offer plenty of notable spots.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting La Rochelle. The old town is filled with boutique shops as well as some name brands. Another fun place to visit is Les Halles, which is an indoor market with fresh produce, seafood, and many local cheeses.

Many visitors go to Hvar to go 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.

Is La Rochelle or Hvar Better for Families?

Hvar is great for its kid-friendly activities. Also, La Rochelle is not as popular, but is still a nice coastal town for its family-friendly activities.

Because of its large number of kid-friendly activities, Hvar is very family-friendly. 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.

La Rochelle is a family-friendly place to visit. It's a coastal town with a port that you can explore. There's also an aquarium and many great seafood restaurants. A nice day trip is to go to l'Ile de Ré, which has nice beaches, some with playgrounds.

Is La Rochelle or Hvar Better for Couples?

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

La Rochelle is a great coastal town for couples, as it has plenty to offer. This beautiful coastal town is seeped in history. There are beautiful squares, romantic parks, and cobblestone streets that you can wander down. It's also nice to take a coastal walk before grabbing dinner at a local seafood restaurant.

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 La Rochelle or Hvar Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Hvar is very popular for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, La Rochelle is not as popular, but is still a nice coastal town for backpackers.

With so many budget-friendly offerings, Hvar is extremely popular 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.

La Rochelle is popular with backpackers and budget travelers. There aren't a ton of hostels in the area, but there are just enough that you should be able to find a place to stay.

Is La Rochelle or Hvar Better for Students?

La Rochelle is a coastal town with good options for students. However, Hvar is not popular with students.

La Rochelle is a good coastal town to visit for students. It's a touristy city with a lot for students to see and do, but the atmosphere is generally quiet and peaceful.

Hvar is not popular with students.

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

La Rochelle and Hvar both offer notable public transit to get you around.

While La Rochelle offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. Public transit around town is operated by Yeló, and mostly consists of buses.

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

Is La Rochelle or Hvar a more walkable city?

La Rochelle 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.

La Rochelle is a very walkable coastal town. It's filled with meandering cobblestone streets that are best explored on foot. Most places around town can be 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 La Rochelle Worth Visiting? and Is Hvar Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Hvar or La Rochelle?

How long in La Rochelle or Hvar?

It's fun to spend time in either La Rochelle or Hvar. In our opinion, La Rochelle has more to see and do, so we recommend that you spend more time in La Rochelle than Hvar. However, 2-4 days is a good amount of time to spend in either destination.

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

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

La Rochelle is a small town where visitors enjoy the food and shopping. Visiting the old town is also a must. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything.

Visitors enjoy the scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping when visiting the party-oriented island of Hvar. It's also a great beach destination, too. Most people visit for the nightlife. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

A weekend in La Rochelle or Hvar?

La Rochelle is a fun place to experience. Most people visit for the food. If you have a weekend, this is a great place to go. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. 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.

Visitors enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the beautiful destination of Hvar. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. This island offers something for everyone. Plenty of people spend a weekend in the area when traveling. If you enjoy all that's offered here, then a weekend is just the right amount of time to spend here.

Five days in La Rochelle or Hvar?

La Rochelle is a small town, so you can explore the area with less time. This coastal town offers something for everyone. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

The vibrant island of Hvar offers museums and nightlife. You'll find plenty of activities on the beach. Five days may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel.

A week in La Rochelle or Hvar?

Because La Rochelle is a small town, it's easy to explore in a short amount of time. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. 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.

Many people enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting Hvar. Anyone can find something fun to do here. Most people come for the beaches. Most people visit for the nightlife. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Paris, The Best 10-Day Tours from Paris, The Best One Week (7-Day) Tours in Croatia, and The Best 2-Week Tours in Croatia.

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

Which is Bigger, La Rochelle or Hvar?

La Rochelle has a larger population, and is about 20 times larger than the population of Hvar. When comparing the sizes of La Rochelle 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 La Rochelle 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 La Rochelle or Hvar in the Summer?

Both Hvar and La Rochelle during the summer are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to La Rochelle in the summer for the beaches, the hiking, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences. Also, most visitors come to Hvar for the beaches, snorkeling, the hiking, and the family-friendly experiences during these months.

La Rochelle is cooler than Hvar in the summer. The daily temperature in La Rochelle averages around 20°C (67°F) in July, and Hvar fluctuates around 26°C (80°F).

In Hvar, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in La Rochelle. In the summer, La Rochelle often gets less sunshine than Hvar. La Rochelle gets 267 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Hvar receives 345 hours of full sun.

La Rochelle usually gets more rain in July than Hvar. La Rochelle gets 35 mm (1.4 in) of rain, while Hvar receives 28 mm (1.1 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit La Rochelle or Hvar in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both La Rochelle and Hvar. Most visitors come to La Rochelle for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the small town atmosphere 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.

In the autumn, La Rochelle is cooler than Hvar. Typically, the autumn temperatures in La Rochelle in October average around 15°C (59°F), and Hvar averages at about 18°C (64°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Hvar this time of the year. La Rochelle usually receives less sunshine than Hvar during autumn. La Rochelle gets 141 hours of sunny skies, while Hvar receives 200 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, La Rochelle usually receives less rain than Hvar. La Rochelle 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 La Rochelle or Hvar in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to La Rochelle as well as Hvar. The winter months attract visitors to La Rochelle 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 January, La Rochelle is generally cooler than Hvar. Daily temperatures in La Rochelle average around 7°C (44°F), and Hvar fluctuates around 8°C (47°F).

In the winter, La Rochelle often gets less sunshine than Hvar. La Rochelle gets 72 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Hvar receives 128 hours of full sun.

La Rochelle usually gets around the same amount of rain in January as Hvar. La Rochelle gets 81 mm (3.2 in) of rain, while Hvar receives 83 mm (3.3 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit La Rochelle or Hvar in the Spring?

Both Hvar and La Rochelle are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. The beaches and the small town charm are the main draw to La Rochelle this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Hvar for the beaches and the natural beauty.

La Rochelle is cooler than Hvar in the spring. The daily temperature in La Rochelle averages around 11°C (52°F) in April, and Hvar fluctuates around 15°C (59°F).

It's quite sunny in Hvar. La Rochelle usually receives less sunshine than Hvar during spring. La Rochelle gets 187 hours of sunny skies, while Hvar receives 212 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, La Rochelle usually receives less rain than Hvar. La Rochelle gets 47 mm (1.9 in) of rain, while Hvar receives 66 mm (2.6 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Hvar and La Rochelle