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

Should you visit Lisbon or Hvar?

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

Should I visit Lisbon 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.

Lisbon

Lisbon is a colorful, vibrant, and stunning city. With plenty of activities and things to do, it's a huge city that draws plenty of visitors. You'll find world class beauty here as well. And you can't forget about the shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Hvar

Hvar is a party-oriented, historic, and beautiful island. With stunning beauty, it attracts visitors from all around. It's also popular because of the scuba diving and snorkeling, beaches, and hiking.

Lisbon and Hvar: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Lisbon or Hvar?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Lisbon. Although Lisbon and Hvar are both popular with visitors, Lisbon has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Lisbon is more popular for its museums, food, music, historical sights, shopping, big city activities, and impressive beauty, while Hvar is known for its scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, and hiking. Hvar is more touristy than Lisbon and is popular for its wild parties, beautiful buildings, and world class cuisine. Lisbon is popular for its hilltop vistos, beautiful old town, and lively Fado music. It is also home to Castelo de São Jorge.

How is Lisbon different from Hvar?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

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

The museums, monuments, and landmarks in Lisbon are among the most recognizable in the world. World renowned landmarks include St. George's Castle, Jerónimos monastery, the Belém Tower, Santa Justa Lift, and countless world class museums.

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 Lisbon or Hvar? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Lisbon 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 Lisbon have been singled out for their culinary prowess. There are many local restaurants as well as food tours and cooking classes that you can enjoy. Make sure you try the local favorites like bacalhau à brás, frango no churrasco, and pastel de nata. Given the beautiful climate, outdoor seating is also popular. Head into the less touristy neighborhoods to try some local dishes or hit up a seafood market. There are also many cafes that offer great breakfasts with fresh ingredients.

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 Lisbon or Hvar Better for Nightlife?

The terrific nightlife scene is relatively similar in Lisbon and Hvar.

The nightlife in Lisbon is well established with world renowned clubs and venues. It is a bustling city with a lot of energy late into the night. There are countless bars, clubs, and music venues that cater to every personality type and style. Whether you want a more relaxed vibe or a raging party, there is likely an place for you.

Hvar is a world class 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.

Is Lisbon or Hvar Better for Music?

Lisbon is renowned for its live music scene. However, Hvar is not a live music destination.

Live music, and music in many other forms, is everyone in Lisbon The local folk music, fado, is popular here, but there are also venues that host almost any other style of music as well. You'll also find several fado museums around town.

Hvar is not a live music destination.

Is Lisbon or Hvar Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Hvar is a popular place for snorkeling and scuba diving. However, Lisbon 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.

Lisbon is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Lisbon or Hvar Better for Beaches?

Hvar is a very popular place for the beach. Also, Lisbon is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its beaches.

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 Lisbon to enjoy the beach. The beaches are often overlooked by visitors, but the coastline near the city is lined with beautiful sandy beaches that are arguably among the best in the area. If you want to get away from city life, head for the water.

Is Lisbon or Hvar Better for its Old Town?

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

The old town of Lisbon is one of the most recognized in the world. The city is famous for the Alfama area, which is where you find the traditional buildings, cobblestoned streets, wandering alleyways, and steep hills. Make sure you take in the stunning view from various parts of town.

Hvar does not have a historic old town.

Is Lisbon or Hvar Better for Hiking?

Hvar is a popular place for its hiking trails. However, Lisbon is not a hiking destination.

Hvar is a good destination for hiking. 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.

Lisbon is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Lisbon or Hvar?

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

The abundance of shops in Lisbon make it a world-class shopping destination. For high end shopping, head to The Avenida da Liberdade. It's lined with designer brands and luxury boutiques.

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 Lisbon or Hvar Better for Families?

Kids will enjoy a visit to either Lisbon or Hvar.

You'll find plenty of family-friendly things to do in Lisbon. Popular family-friendly activities include exploring Castelo Sao Jorge, visiting the aquarium, hanging out on the beach, and of course, taking the funiculars. Kids of all ages will appreciate the intricate maze of streets and lively atmosphere that this city offers. There's also the famous Livraria Lello & Irmão, which is a beautiful bookshop that is said to be an inspiration for Harry Potter. Don't expect to simply walk in, as there is often a long line to enter.

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.

Is Lisbon or Hvar Better for Couples?

With fun activities for couples, both Lisbon and Hvar make for a excellent place to visit.

Lisbon makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. With it's colorful buildings and dramatic hills, this city offers a truly romantic setting for couples. There are many romantic viewpoints as well as world class restaurants that couples will enjoy.

Couples visit Hvar frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. 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 Lisbon or Hvar Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Lisbon and Hvar are both terrific destinations for backpackers.

A large number of backpackers visit Lisbon, as it is a very popular city for budget travelers. Hostels are abundant, and you'll have no trouble finding other backpackers to hang out with. Many hostels even organize activities and group meals for travelers. Prices are also reasonable for a large and vibrant city.

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.

Is Lisbon or Hvar Better for Students?

Lisbon is notable for students. However, Hvar is not popular with students.

Students come from all over to stay in Lisbon. It's a lively city with a lot to see and do for international students.

Hvar is not popular with students.

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

Lisbon is renowned for its public transit. Also, Hvar is not as famous, but is still a good island to visit for times when you don't have a car.

Lisbon has a great public transit system. The metro has four lines that go around the city. There are also trams, buses, and the funiculars.

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

Is Lisbon or Hvar a more walkable city?

Lisbon 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 Lisbon on foot. There are many walkable areas that aren't too hilly like Baixa, a stretch along the Tagus River, and Belém.

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 Lisbon Worth Visiting? and Is Hvar Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Hvar or Lisbon?

How long in Lisbon or Hvar?

It's fun to spend time in either Lisbon or Hvar. Generally, people tend to spend more time in Lisbon due to the larger number of activities and things to do. Usually, 3-7 days is a good amount of time for Lisbon, and 2-4 days is enough time in Hvar.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Lisbon than Hvar 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 Lisbon.

One day in Lisbon or Hvar?

Lisbon is a big city destination where you can fill many days. 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.

Many travelers enjoy the scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping when visiting the destination of Hvar. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

A weekend in Lisbon or Hvar?

Lisbon 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.

Hvar is a great place to explore. It is common to spend a weekend here. Don't miss the nightlife, as that's what most people do. With all of its activities, you can easily fill a weekend here. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

Five days in Lisbon or Hvar?

Lisbon is a colorful big city where you can fill many days. This city offers something for everyone. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. Plenty of people spend five days in the area when traveling. Five days is often enough time to do most activities.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Hvar. Don't miss the nightlife, as that's what most people do. Most people come for the beaches. Five days may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

A week in Lisbon or Hvar?

Lisbon is a colorful city where you can fill many days. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. Many people spend one week here. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. Because of this, one week is usually enough time for a trip here.

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the party-oriented destination of Hvar. This island offers a variety of activities to choose from. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. 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 in Portugal, The Best 2-Week Tours in Portugal, The Best One Week (7-Day) Tours in Croatia, and The Best 2-Week Tours in Croatia.

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

Which is Bigger, Lisbon or Hvar?

Lisbon has a larger population, and is about 140 times larger than the population of Hvar. When comparing the sizes of Lisbon 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 Lisbon 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 Lisbon or Hvar in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Lisbon as well as Hvar. Many visitors come to Lisbon in the summer for the beaches, the city activities, the music scene, 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.

In July, Lisbon is generally cooler than Hvar. Daily temperatures in Lisbon average around 23°C (73°F), and Hvar fluctuates around 26°C (80°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Hvar. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Lisbon this time of the year. In the summer, Lisbon often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Hvar. Lisbon gets 352 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Hvar receives 345 hours of full sun.

Lisbon usually gets less rain in July than Hvar. Lisbon gets 5 mm (0.2 in) of rain, while Hvar receives 28 mm (1.1 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Lisbon or Hvar in the Autumn?

Both Hvar and Lisbon are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Lisbon for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area 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.

Lisbon is around the same temperature as Hvar in the autumn. The daily temperature in Lisbon averages around 19°C (66°F) in October, and Hvar fluctuates around 18°C (64°F).

It's quite sunny in Hvar. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Lisbon. Lisbon usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Hvar during autumn. Lisbon gets 213 hours of sunny skies, while Hvar receives 200 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Lisbon usually receives around the same amount of rain as Hvar. Lisbon gets 80 mm (3.1 in) of rain, while Hvar receives 79 mm (3.1 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Lisbon or Hvar in the Winter?

Both Hvar and Lisbon during the winter are popular places to visit. The winter months attract visitors to Lisbon because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Furthermore, the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Hvar this time of year.

In the winter, Lisbon is a little warmer than Hvar. Typically, the winter temperatures in Lisbon in January average around 12°C (53°F), and Hvar averages at about 8°C (47°F).

In the winter, Lisbon often gets more sunshine than Hvar. Lisbon gets 144 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Hvar receives 128 hours of full sun.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Lisbon. Lisbon usually gets more rain in January than Hvar. Lisbon gets 110 mm (4.3 in) of rain, while Hvar receives 83 mm (3.3 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Lisbon or Hvar in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Lisbon and Hvar. The beaches, the activities around the city, and the natural beauty are the main draw to Lisbon this time of year. Furthermore, many travelers come to Hvar for the beaches and the natural beauty.

In April, Lisbon is generally around the same temperature as Hvar. Daily temperatures in Lisbon average around 16°C (60°F), and Hvar fluctuates around 15°C (59°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Hvar this time of the year. In Lisbon, it's very sunny this time of the year. Lisbon usually receives more sunshine than Hvar during spring. Lisbon gets 235 hours of sunny skies, while Hvar receives 212 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Lisbon usually receives around the same amount of rain as Hvar. Lisbon gets 64 mm (2.5 in) of rain, while Hvar receives 66 mm (2.6 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Hvar and Lisbon