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

Should you visit Lyon or Hvar?

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

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

Lyon

Lyon is a historic, beautiful, and cultural city. Travelers will also find plenty of sights and attractions here, as it's a big city that attracts lots of visitors. 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 nightlife, food, and shopping.

Hvar

Hvar is a beautiful, vibrant, and energetic island. The beauty of this spot is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. And you can't forget about the museums, nightlife, and food.

Lyon and Hvar: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Lyon or Hvar?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Lyon than Hvar, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Lyon is better known for its museums, food, historical sights, shopping, big city activities, impressive beauty, and quaint atmosphere, while Hvar is more popular for its nightlife, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, and hiking. Hvar is more touristy than Lyon and is known for its wild parties, beautiful buildings, and world class cuisine. Lyon is well known for its world-renowned cuisine, charming old town, and vibrant new town. Also, Lyon is famous for The Basilique Notre-Dame de Fourvière.

How is Lyon different from Hvar?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Lyon 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 Lyon are among the most recognizable in the world. There are many world class museums and historic landmarks in the city including Musée des Beaux Arts, Musée de la Civilisation Gallo-Romaine, and Basilique Notre-Dame de Fourvière.

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 Lyon or Hvar? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Lyon 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 Lyon have been singled out for their culinary prowess. Known as "the Gastronomic Capital of the World" this city stands above the rest when it comes to Michelin star restaurants (there are 17!), fresh ingredients, and unique local flavors. Favorite local dishes include pâté en croûte, rosette de Lyon, and saucisson brioché.

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 Lyon or Hvar Better for Nightlife?

Hvar is an amazing island to visit for nightlife and partying. Also, Lyon is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its evening party scene.

Hvar has a colorful and one-of-a-kind nightlife scene. 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.

Lyon has a large number of nightlife venues. The city has enough diverse neighborhoods that you'll find a scene that is great for everyone. There are dance clubs, cocktail bars, and wine bars that meet every personality and style.

Is Lyon or Hvar Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Hvar is a nice place to visit for its diving and snorkeling. However, Lyon 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.

Lyon is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Lyon or Hvar Better for Beaches?

Hvar is a well-known place for the beache. However, Lyon 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.

Lyon is not a beach destination.

Is Lyon or Hvar Better for its Old Town?

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

The old town of Lyon is one of the most recognized in the world. This impressive old town climbs from the river into Fourvière Hill. It's a Renaissance era district with beautiful buildings and plenty of character. You can spend days wandering the quaint streets and popping in the world class restaurants.

Hvar does not have a historic old town.

Is Lyon or Hvar Better for Hiking?

Hvar is a nice place to visit for the nearby hiking options. However, Lyon 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.

Lyon is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Lyon or Hvar?

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

Lyon is a popular shopping destination with plenty of stores. The city has many trendy markets, pedestrian shopping areas, and character-filled boutiques. From the charming shops in old town to the chic shopping streets, there are plenty of places to splurge around town.

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 Lyon or Hvar Better for Families?

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

Lyon is a very kid-friendly city. The city has many kid-friendly museums including Musée des Confluences and the Cinema and Miniature Museum. There are also playgrounds, patisseries, and river cruises that you can enjoy as a family. Puppet shows are also fun, but do note that they're usually in French. While the restaurants are amazing for adults, it can be tricky to find a kid-friendly option with early opening hours that are convenient for little ones.

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.

Is Lyon or Hvar Better for Couples?

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

Lyon is a very popular place to visit for couples. Couples can enjoy wandering the beautiful Old Town, taking a river cruise, and dining on some of the best food in France.

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 Lyon or Hvar Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Hvar is an amazing island to visit for backpackers. Also, Lyon is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for backpackers and budget travelers.

Backpackers and budget travelers come from all over the world to visit Hvar. 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.

Plenty of budget travelers and backpackers visit Lyon. The city has several hostels and a number of activities that are fun for budget travelers and backpackers.

Is Lyon or Hvar Better for Students?

Lyon is renowned for students. However, Hvar is not popular with students.

Lyon is a very popular city for students. It is a very livable city with many fun cultural activities for students. There are many different entertainment options during the day, and during the evening there are plenty of places to hang out.

Hvar is not popular with students.

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

Lyon 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.

Lyon has a great public transit system. The city has a metro, trams, and buses, that make it easy to get around.

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

Is Lyon or Hvar a more walkable city?

Lyon 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.

Lyon is a very walkable city. The old town is particularly walkable, but the hills can make things a bit challenging. There are also a number of pedestrian streets around town.

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 Lyon Worth Visiting? and Is Hvar Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Hvar or Lyon?

How long in Lyon or Hvar?

It's fun to spend time in either Lyon or Hvar. Generally, people tend to spend more time in Lyon due to the larger number of activities and things to do. Usually, 2-5 days is a good amount of time for Lyon, and 2-4 days is enough time in Hvar.

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

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

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

Lyon 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.

Visitors enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the destination of Hvar. People usually spend lots of time at the beach. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything.

A weekend in Lyon or Hvar?

Lyon is a fun place to experience. 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.

Hvar is a fun place to experience. Most people visit for the nightlife. If you have a weekend, this is a great place to go. It's also a great beach destination, too. 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.

Five days in Lyon or Hvar?

Lyon is a beautiful 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.

You'll find scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping around the vibrant destination of Hvar. This island offers something for everyone. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

A week in Lyon or Hvar?

The authentic city of Lyon offers nightlife and food. 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.

The party-oriented island of Hvar offers shopping and museums. You'll find plenty of activities on the beach. 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.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best 10-Day Tours from Paris, The Best 2-Week Tours from Paris, 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 Lyon and Hvar, we can see that Lyon 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 Lyon would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Lyon 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 Lyon Expensive? and Is Hvar Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Lyon or Hvar?

Lyon has a larger population, and is about 130 times larger than the population of Hvar. When comparing the sizes of Lyon 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 Lyon 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 Lyon or Hvar in the Summer?

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

Lyon is cooler than Hvar in the summer. The daily temperature in Lyon averages around 22°C (71°F) in July, and Hvar fluctuates around 26°C (80°F).

It's quite sunny in Hvar. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Lyon. Lyon usually receives less sunshine than Hvar during summer. Lyon gets 285 hours of sunny skies, while Hvar receives 345 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Lyon usually receives more rain than Hvar. Lyon gets 61 mm (2.4 in) of rain, while Hvar receives 28 mm (1.1 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Lyon or Hvar in the Autumn?

Both Hvar and Lyon during the autumn are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Lyon for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area. Furthermore, many visitors come to Hvar in the autumn for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

In the autumn, Lyon is cooler than Hvar. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Lyon in October average around 14°C (56°F), and Hvar averages at about 18°C (64°F).

In Hvar, it's very sunny this time of the year. In the autumn, Lyon often gets less sunshine than Hvar. Lyon gets 127 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Hvar receives 200 hours of full sun.

Lyon usually gets around the same amount of rain in October as Hvar. Lyon gets 78 mm (3.1 in) of rain, while Hvar receives 79 mm (3.1 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Lyon or Hvar in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Lyon and Hvar. Many visitors come to Lyon in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Furthermore, most visitors come to Hvar for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months.

Lyon can get quite cold in the winter. In January, Lyon is generally much colder than Hvar. Daily temperatures in Lyon average around 4°C (39°F), and Hvar fluctuates around 8°C (47°F).

Lyon usually receives less sunshine than Hvar during winter. Lyon gets 62 hours of sunny skies, while Hvar receives 128 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Lyon usually receives less rain than Hvar. Lyon gets 55 mm (2.1 in) of rain, while Hvar receives 83 mm (3.3 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Lyon or Hvar in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Lyon as well as Hvar. Most visitors come to Lyon for the activities around the city and the natural beauty during these months. Additionally, the spring months attract visitors to Hvar because of the beaches and the natural beauty.

Lyon is cooler than Hvar in the spring. The daily temperature in Lyon averages around 11°C (53°F) in April, and Hvar fluctuates around 15°C (59°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Hvar. In the spring, Lyon often gets less sunshine than Hvar. Lyon gets 174 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Hvar receives 212 hours of full sun.

Lyon usually gets around the same amount of rain in April as Hvar. Lyon gets 65 mm (2.6 in) of rain, while Hvar receives 66 mm (2.6 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Hvar and Lyon