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

Should you visit Lillehammer or Hvar?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Lillehammer or Hvar, this travel comparison, which includes costs, can help. The overall cost of travel is usually a consideration when deciding where to go next, and the cost comparison down below can help you decide based on the average prices from other travelers along with your own travel budget.

Lillehammer

Lillehammer is a natural, adventure-filled, and sporty city. It's a very nice small town not to be missed. And you can't forget about the shopping, museums, and skiing.

Hvar

Hvar is a beautiful, vibrant, and energetic 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.

Lillehammer and Hvar: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Lillehammer or Hvar?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Hvar. Although Lillehammer and Hvar are popular destinations, Hvar has more sights and attractions for tourists. Hvar is very popular for its nightlife, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, and impressive beauty, while Lillehammer attracts visitors for its skiing, hiking, and small town charm. Hvar is more touristy than Lillehammer and is known for its wild parties, beautiful buildings, and world class cuisine. It is also well known for Hvar Fort. Lillehammer is famous for its winter sports and role as host for the 1994 Winter Olympics.

How is Lillehammer different from Hvar?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Is Lillehammer or Hvar Better for Skiing?

Lillehammer is notable for snow skiing. However, Hvar is not a skiing destination.

People head to Lillehammer specifically to take advantage of the area's skiing and winter sports. There is both downhill skiing and cross country skiing in the area. There are five alpine centers that offer skiing for everyone from beginners to the world's elite. There are also 2,300 kilometers of cross country ski trails. The region is known for its long and reliable winter with great ski conditions.

Hvar is not a skiing destination.

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

Both Lillehammer and Hvar have nice landmarks and museums for visitors.

Lillehammer is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. There are a number of sights that are related to the city's role as host of the 1994 Olympics. Check out the Norwegian Olympic Museum, Lysgårdsbakkene Ski Jumping Arena, and the Lillehammer Olympic Bobsleigh and Luge Track. Also make sure you visit the Maihaugen Open-Air Museum.

Hvar offers a variety of museums and landmarks to choose from. 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 Lillehammer or Hvar? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Foodies will find both Lillehammer and Hvar both to be high quality destinations.

With its innovative style combined with traditional elements, Lillehammer makes for a great culinary experience. Local food traditions date back centuries and you'll find a combination of simple recipes and elaborate menus. Dishes often include fish or local meat such as elk. There are also soups such as kål, which are made with bacon, meat, potatoes, and barley.

Hvar has a huge number of terrific 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 Lillehammer or Hvar Better for Nightlife?

Hvar is a world-class destination for nightlife. Also, Lillehammer is still popular, but not quite as popular 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.

If you're looking for night time activities Lillehammer has a few options to choose from. There is a lively atmosphere with many bars, clubs, and pubs around town.

Is Lillehammer or Hvar Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Hvar is a nice place to visit for the nearby scuba diving and snorkeling. However, Lillehammer is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

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.

Lillehammer is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Lillehammer or Hvar Better for Beaches?

Hvar is well known for its beaches. However, Lillehammer is not a beach destination.

You'll have a great beach vacation in Hvar. 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.

Lillehammer is not a beach destination.

Is Lillehammer or Hvar Better for Hiking?

Lillehammer 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.

Lillehammer is a popular spot for hiking. You'll find many hikes that take you through the alpine setting and the pristine landscapes. You can enjoy breathtaking views and strolls through nearby national parks.

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 Lillehammer or Hvar?

Shopping is a popular activity in both Hvar and Lillehammer.

Lillehammer is a great destination for shopping. You'll find a number of shopping centers that have retail stores selling clothing, jewelry, sporting goods, and more.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting 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.

Is Lillehammer or Hvar Better for Families?

Lillehammer and Hvar are both high quality destinations for the whole family.

Lillehammer is a very family-friendly place to visit. The town has many winter and adventure sports that are great for the whole family. You can visit the Olympic Park, or spend the day at Hunderfossen Familiepark, which is one of the original amusement parks in the country. You can also visit Jorekstad Waterpark, go hiking in the summer, or skiing in the winter.

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.

Is Lillehammer or Hvar Better for Couples?

Lillehammer and Hvar are both high quality to visit as a couple.

Couples visit Lillehammer frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. The skiing and other winter activities are great for winter sport enthusiasts. During the summer months there's hiking and other outdoor fun.

Hvar is a great city 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 Lillehammer or Hvar Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Hvar is a world-class destination for backpackers. Also, Lillehammer 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.

Lillehammer is a good city to visit for backpackers. There's some camping and other affordable accommodation for backpackers in the area.

Is Lillehammer or Hvar Better for Students?

Lillehammer is a city with good options for students. However, Hvar is not popular with students.

Lillehammer is a good city to visit for students. The city has a number of students and offers some great entertainment activities. The cost of living can be high though.

Hvar is not popular with students.

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

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

You'll find some public transit in Lillehammer, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. There are trains and buses throughout the region.

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 Lillehammer or Hvar a more walkable city?

Lillehammer and Hvar both are nice when exploring on foot.

Lillehammer is somewhat walkable. There are some pedestrian streets and pedestrian-friendly areas in town.

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 Lillehammer Worth Visiting? and Is Hvar Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Hvar or Lillehammer?

How long in Lillehammer or Hvar?

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

Families should spend more time in Hvar than Lillehammer. 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 Lillehammer. 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 Lillehammer 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 Lillehammer or Hvar?

Visitors enjoy the skiing and nightlife when visiting the destination of Lillehammer. 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.

Visitors enjoy the scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping when visiting the historic 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 Lillehammer or Hvar?

Lillehammer is a fun place to experience. 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.

Visitors enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the energetic 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 Lillehammer or Hvar?

You'll find food and shopping around the natural destination of Lillehammer. This city 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.

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 Lillehammer or Hvar?

The natural city of Lillehammer offers shopping and museums. 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.

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 Polar Tours & Cruises in Norway, The Best Northern Lights Tours in Norway, The Best One Week (7-Day) Tours in Croatia, and The Best 2-Week Tours in Croatia.

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

Which is Bigger, Lillehammer or Hvar?

Lillehammer has a larger population, and is about 5 times larger than the population of Hvar. When comparing the sizes of Lillehammer 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.