A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Livorno vs. Hvar for Nightlife, Backpackers, Food, and Beaches

Should you visit Livorno or Hvar?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Livorno 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.

Livorno

Livorno is a waterfront, friendly, and down-to-earth port city. It's a large city, so you'll find plenty of things to do around town. And you can't forget about the food, shopping, and nightlife.

Hvar

Hvar is a beautiful, vibrant, and energetic island. With stunning beauty, it attracts visitors from all around. It's also popular because of the shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Livorno and Hvar: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
Things to Consider
  • Less museums and historical sights
  • Less popular for nightlife
  • Less attractive beach
  • 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 Livorno or Hvar?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Hvar. Although Livorno and Hvar are both popular with visitors, Hvar has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Hvar is more popular for its museums, food, nightlife, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, hiking, and impressive beauty, while Livorno is known for its big city activities. Hvar is more touristy than Livorno and is popular for its wild parties, beautiful buildings, and world class cuisine. It is also home to Hvar Fort. Livorno is popular for its large port and its great seafood.

How is Livorno different from Hvar?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Livorno
Hvar

Hvar is a nice place to visit for its historical sights. However, Livorno is not a good destination for its sights and 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.

Livorno offers a handful of options for museums and historical sights. The waterfront promenade and New Venice are nice to explore. There's an aquarium in town as well as a fun central market.


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

Livorno
Hvar

Hvar is great for its local flavors and cuisine. Also, Livorno is not as popular, but is still a nice port city for its local cuisine and restaurants.

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.

Livorno offers number of good local restaurants to choose from. As a port city, this is the place to try seafood. Many dishes include calamari, shrimp, or freshly caught fish. The city is less touristy than most in Italy, so even the food has an authentic and down-to-earth vibe.

Is Livorno or Hvar Better for Nightlife?

Livorno
Hvar

Hvar is renowned for its evening party scene. Also, Livorno is not as popular, but is still a nice port city for nightlife.

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.

There's a variety of activities in the evening in Livorno. Most visitors arrive by cruise ship, and depart in the evening, but the city is large and for those that stay the night, there are a number of bars and clubs around town.

Is Livorno or Hvar Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Livorno
Hvar

Hvar is a nice place to visit for snorkeling and scuba diving. However, Livorno 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.

Livorno is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.


Is Livorno or Hvar Better for Beaches?

Livorno
Hvar

Hvar is great for the beach. However, Livorno is not a good destination for its beaches.

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.

Livorno is a good spot to see the beach. The beaches are pebbly or rocky, so you won't really find a long stretch of sandy beach where you can relax. They can also stay very crowded.

Is Livorno or Hvar Better for Hiking?

Livorno
Hvar

Hvar is a nice place to visit for hiking. However, Livorno is not a hiking destination.

Hvar has hiking trails worth exploring. 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.

Livorno is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Livorno or Hvar?

Livorno
Hvar

If you're looking to go shopping, Livorno and Hvar both offer plenty of good spots.

Livorno has a variety of shopping areas worth visiting. The main shopping street in town is Via Grande. It's generally filled with major chain stores and familiar brands.

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.


Is Livorno or Hvar Better for Families?

Livorno
Hvar

Hvar is great for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Livorno is not as popular, but is still a nice port city for its family-friendly activities.

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.

Livorno is a family-friendly place to visit. The city has a nice aquarium as well as outdoor recreational activities like cycling and boating. There's a beach and parks where kids can stretch their legs and run around as well.

Is Livorno or Hvar Better for Couples?

Livorno
Hvar

Hvar is great for couples. Also, Livorno is not as popular, but is still a nice port city for romance.

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.

Livorno is a nice destination for couples. There are some nice museums as well as parks and boat rides that couples can enjoy. There's also an aquarium and a beach.

Is Livorno or Hvar Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Livorno
Hvar

Hvar is renowned for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Livorno is not a good destination for backpackers.

A large number of backpackers visit Hvar, as it is a very popular island for 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.

Livorno is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. Most backpackers skip this city, so you won't find many hostels around town. It's a relatively affordable place to stay with some fun entertainment options if you do pass through.


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

Livorno
Hvar

Livorno and Hvar both offer good public transit to get you around.

While Livorno offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. There are buses around town including lines that run from the central train station to the port.

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

Is Livorno or Hvar a more walkable city?

Livorno
Hvar

Livorno and Hvar are good when it comes to walkability.

Livorno is a somewhat walkable port city. Parts of the city are walkable, but if you're arriving by cruise ship, you'll want to take a shuttle bus from the port.

Hvar is somewhat walkable. 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 Livorno Worth Visiting? and Is Hvar Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Hvar or Livorno?

How long in Livorno or Hvar?

It's fun to spend time in either Livorno or Hvar. Generally, people tend to spend more time in Hvar due to the larger number of activities and things to do. Usually, 1-2 days is a good amount of time for Livorno, and 2-4 days is enough time in Hvar.

Families should spend more time in Hvar than Livorno. 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 Livorno. 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 Livorno 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 Livorno or Hvar? Ideal Length of Stay
    Livorno 1-2 
    Hvar 2-4

One day in Livorno or Hvar?

Visitors enjoy the shopping and nightlife when visiting the destination of Livorno. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One day is usually enough time to experience most activities.

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 Livorno or Hvar?

Livorno is a fun place to experience. If you have a weekend, this is a great place to go. 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 Livorno or Hvar?

You'll find food and shopping around the friendly destination of Livorno. This port city offers something for everyone. 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 Livorno or Hvar?

The down-to-earth port city of Livorno offers shopping and nightlife. 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 Luxury Tours to Italy, The Best Budget Tours to Italy, The Best One Week (7-Day) Tours in Croatia, and The Best 2-Week Tours in Croatia.


Which place is cheaper, Hvar or Livorno?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Livorno is €135, while the average daily cost in Hvar is €102. 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 Livorno and Hvar in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Livorno 75
    Hvar 38
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Livorno 150
    Hvar 76
Compare Hotels in Livorno and Hvar

Looking for a hotel in Livorno 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 Livorno


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: Livorno Hotel Prices and Hvar Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Livorno 24
    Hvar 47

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Livorno

Also for Livorno, here are a few examples of actual transportation services:

  • From Bus Transfer to the Leaning Tower of Pisa: $20
  • From Livorno Cruise Port: Bus Transfer to Pisa and Lucca: $34
  • From Florence and Pisa Roundtrip Transfer: $48
  • Livorno Cruise Port to Pisa city hotels -Arrival Private Transfer: $100
  • Livorno Port to Pisa Airport (PSA) - Arrival Private Transfer: $100
  • Private Transfer from Livorno Cruise Port to Florence City Hotels: $110
  • Private Transfer - Livorno Cruise Port to Florence Airport (FLR): $110
  • Livorno Private Arrival Transfer: Cruise Port to Central Florence: $173
  • Private Transfer from Livorno Port to Florence Hotels: $197

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Hvar

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Hvar:

  • Speedboat Transfer from Hvar Town to Split Airport: $535

Is it cheaper to fly into Livorno or Hvar?

Prices for flights to both Hvar and Livorno 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
    Livorno 42
    Hvar 38

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Livorno

For Livorno, here are some samples of tours and activities related to meals and dining experiences:

  • Private Home Cooking Class and Meal with a Local: $155
  • Cesarine: Cooking Class at a Cesarina's Home in Livorno: $158

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: $180
  • Hvar Hidden Gems Tour with Lunch or Dinner: $187
  • Hvar Hidden Gems Small Group Half Day Tour with Lunch or Dinner: $202
  • Hvar Abandoned Village Tour with Local Dinner: $214
  • Private Hvar Wine Tasting Tour with Traditional Dinner: $234
  • Food Tour: Traditional Flavours and Food Sampling on Hvar: $262
  • The Best of Hvar in a Day with Wine tasting and Local Dinner: $273
  • Hvar Small Group Wine Tour and Authentic Dalmatian Dinner: $273

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Livorno 26
    Hvar 7.48

Tours and Activities in Livorno

Also, here are some specific examples of entertainment, tickets, and activities for Livorno.

  • Aquarium Entrance Ticket: $16
  • 24-Hour Hop-on Hop-off Bus Ticket Experience: $20
  • Shore Excursion to Pisa and Livorno Bus Tour: $35
  • 2-Hour Private Guided Tour with Tasting of Bolgheri DOCs: $38
  • Night Bike Tour in Bolgheri with Tasting: $65
  • Half Day Pisa and Jewel of the Cinque Terre Tour From Livorno: $68
  • Livorno Food and Market Tour: $87
  • Epicurean Experience Private Diner with a Local and Local Food: $150
  • Cinque Terre small group tour max 15 people from Livorno port: $168
  • Full-Day Private Tour of Cinque Terre with Personal Photographer from Pisa: $196
  • Private Walking Tour in Livorno with Personal Photographer from Pisa: $218
  • 2-Hour Private Tour with Photo Shoot in 500 to Bolgheri: $272

Tours and Activities in Hvar

Some specific costs of activities, tours, and entrance tickets for Hvar are as follows:

  • BLUE CAVE & 5 islands tour from Hvar: $98
  • 1-Hour Battle Archery Game in Hvar Adventure Park: $22
  • 1-Hour Private Paintball Adventure in Park Hvar Jelsa: $23
  • 3-Hour Lavender Tour from Hvar: $150
  • Adventurous Blue and Green Cave group tour: $86
  • Back to the Roots - Ancient Island Interactive Experience: $141
  • Beach bar Laganini and Hula Hula half-day Private Boat Tour: $918
  • Blue & Green cave tour with yacht from town Hvar: $229
  • Blue Cave & Vis Island speedboat tour from Hvar: $109
  • Blue Cave and Pakleni Islands group Tour from Hvar: $107
  • Blue cave group tour with swimming and snorkelling from Hvar: $76
  • Blue cave tour with speed boat from town Hvar: $196

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Livorno 24
    Hvar 9.18

Sample the Local Flavors in Livorno

Here are a few nightlife and alcohol tours and activities from local tour providers in Livorno:

  • Wine Tour Experience at Agricola Tamburini: $49
  • PRIVATE EXCURSION: Pisa and Lucca with Lunch and wine tastings : $272
  • From Siena and Chianti Day Trip with Wine Tasting: $477

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: $118
  • Hvar Wine tasting small group experience: $131
  • Private Hvar Wine Tasting Tour : $142
  • Wine Tasting Tour: $157
  • Chocolate and Wine Tasting Small Group Tour from Hvar: $175


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


Which is Bigger, Livorno or Hvar?

Livorno has a larger population, and is about 40 times larger than the population of Hvar. When comparing the sizes of Livorno 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 Livorno 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 Livorno or Hvar in the Summer?

Both Hvar and Livorno during the summer are popular places to visit. The beaches, the city activities, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Livorno this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Hvar for the beaches, snorkeling, the hiking, and the family-friendly experiences.

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

In Hvar, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Livorno. In the summer, Livorno often gets less sunshine than Hvar. Livorno gets 316 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Hvar receives 345 hours of full sun.

Livorno usually gets less rain in July than Hvar. Livorno gets 24 mm (0.9 in) of rain, while Hvar receives 28 mm (1.1 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Livorno 23°C (73°F) 
    Hvar 26°C (80°F)

Should I visit Livorno or Hvar in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Livorno and Hvar. Many travelers come to Livorno for the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene. Also, many visitors come to Hvar in the autumn for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

Livorno is cooler than Hvar in the autumn. The daily temperature in Livorno averages around 16°C (61°F) in October, and Hvar fluctuates around 18°C (64°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Hvar this time of the year. Livorno usually receives less sunshine than Hvar during autumn. Livorno gets 177 hours of sunny skies, while Hvar receives 200 hours of full sun in the autumn.

Livorno gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In October, Livorno usually receives more rain than Hvar. Livorno gets 120 mm (4.7 in) of rain, while Hvar receives 79 mm (3.1 in) of rain each month for the autumn.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Livorno 16°C (61°F) 
    Hvar 18°C (64°F)

Should I visit Livorno or Hvar in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Livorno as well as Hvar. Many visitors come to Livorno in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, most visitors come to Hvar for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months.

In the winter, Livorno is cooler than Hvar. Typically, the winter temperatures in Livorno in January average around 7°C (45°F), and Hvar averages at about 8°C (47°F).

In the winter, Livorno often gets less sunshine than Hvar. Livorno gets 105 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Hvar receives 128 hours of full sun.

Livorno usually gets less rain in January than Hvar. Livorno gets 74 mm (2.9 in) of rain, while Hvar receives 83 mm (3.3 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Livorno 7°C (45°F) 
    Hvar 8°C (47°F)

Should I visit Livorno or Hvar in the Spring?

Both Hvar and Livorno are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Livorno for the beaches and the activities around the city during these months. Also, the spring months attract visitors to Hvar because of the beaches and the natural beauty.

In April, Livorno is generally cooler than Hvar. Daily temperatures in Livorno average around 13°C (55°F), and Hvar fluctuates around 15°C (59°F).

It's quite sunny in Hvar. Livorno usually receives less sunshine than Hvar during spring. Livorno gets 192 hours of sunny skies, while Hvar receives 212 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Livorno usually receives more rain than Hvar. Livorno gets 80 mm (3.1 in) of rain, while Hvar receives 66 mm (2.6 in) of rain each month for the spring.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Livorno 13°C (55°F) 
    Hvar 15°C (59°F)

Typical Weather for Hvar and Livorno

Livorno Hvar
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 7°C (45°F) 74 mm (2.9 in) 8°C (47°F) 83 mm (3.3 in)
Feb 8°C (46°F) 70 mm (2.8 in) 9°C (48°F) 68 mm (2.7 in)
Mar 10°C (50°F) 77 mm (3 in) 11°C (52°F) 75 mm (3 in)
Apr 13°C (55°F) 80 mm (3.1 in) 15°C (59°F) 66 mm (2.6 in)
May 16°C (61°F) 61 mm (2.4 in) 20°C (67°F) 56 mm (2.2 in)
Jun 20°C (68°F) 43 mm (1.7 in) 23°C (74°F) 51 mm (2 in)
Jul 23°C (73°F) 24 mm (0.9 in) 26°C (80°F) 28 mm (1.1 in)
Aug 23°C (73°F) 57 mm (2.2 in) 26°C (79°F) 50 mm (2 in)
Sep 20°C (68°F) 88 mm (3.5 in) 22°C (72°F) 61 mm (2.4 in)
Oct 16°C (61°F) 120 mm (4.7 in) 18°C (64°F) 79 mm (3.1 in)
Nov 11°C (52°F) 122 mm (4.8 in) 13°C (56°F) 108 mm (4.3 in)
Dec 8°C (46°F) 85 mm (3.3 in) 10°C (49°F) 100 mm (3.9 in)