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

Should you visit Messina or Hvar?

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

Trying to figure out where to travel next? This travel comparison between Messina and Hvar can help. It includes a travel cost comparison in addition to other factors. For many travelers, the cost of a destination is a primary consideration when choosing where to go.

Messina

Messina is a bustling, local, and historic 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 nightlife, food, and shopping.

Hvar

Hvar is a vibrant, energetic, and party-oriented island. This is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. It's also known for shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Messina and Hvar: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Messina or Hvar?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Hvar. Although Messina and Hvar are popular destinations, Hvar has more sights and attractions for tourists. Hvar is very popular for its food, nightlife, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, hiking, and impressive beauty, while Messina attracts visitors for its big city activities. Hvar is more touristy than Messina and is known for its wild parties, beautiful buildings, and world class cuisine. It is also well known for Hvar Fort. Messina is famous for being the entry and departure point to Sicily for those traveling by ferry.

How is Messina different from Hvar?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

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

Messina is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. There are a number of historic sights around town including the Cathedral and the Piazza del Duomo, the Bell Tower and Astronomical Clock, Santissima Annunziata dei Catalani, and the Regional Museum. There are also many ornate fountains around town.

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 Messina or Hvar? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Hvar is well known for its restaurant scene. Also, Messina is still popular, but not quite as popular for its local flavors and cuisine.

With its innovative style combined with traditional elements, Hvar makes for a great culinary experience. 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.

Messina has a delicious restaurant scene that relies on local flavors. The city's cuisine is a mix of the cultures that have influenced Sicily over the centuries. The city has a longstanding fishing industry and one of the most popular dishes are swordfish rolls. Also try the pidone (similar to calzones with different fillings), and the focaccia (a local bread).

Is Messina or Hvar Better for Nightlife?

Hvar is renowned for nightlife. Also, Messina is still popular, but not quite as popular for nightlife and partying.

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.

Many people head to Messina for the nightlife scene. The nightlife scene is mostly centered around the old town and you'll find a mix of locals and tourists hanging out in pubs and bars. During the summer months there are often free outdoor concerts to enjoy.

Is Messina or Hvar Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Hvar is a island with good options for the nearby scuba diving and snorkeling. However, Messina is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

It's fun to get in the water and check out the local marine life in Hvar. 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.

Messina is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Messina or Hvar Better for Beaches?

Hvar is well known for its beaches. However, Messina is not particularly known for the beache.

The beaches at Hvar attract visitors from all over. 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.

You can check out the beach in Messina. There are pebbly beaches in the area that are becoming more popular with tourists.

Is Messina or Hvar Better for Hiking?

Hvar is a island with good options for its hiking experiences. However, Messina is not a hiking destination.

Plenty of visitors go hiking around 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.

Messina is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Messina or Hvar?

Shopping is a popular activity in both Hvar and Messina.

Messina is a great destination for shopping. The best shopping is around Piazza Cairoli with the main shopping streets being Viale Europa and Viale San Martino. There are many small boutiques that have cheaper prices than some of the more upscale Sicilian towns.

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 Messina or Hvar Better for Families?

Both Messina and Hvar are great to visit with kids.

Messina is a very family-friendly place to visit. There are a number outdoor activities that kids will enjoy including Parco Avventura Dei Peloritani, which has ropes and obstacle courses. There's also the Karting Center, which is fun for the whole family, or a small aquarium in town. If you're looking for an excursion outside of town, head to Cascata Cataolo waterfall, which is very kid-friendly.

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 Messina or Hvar Better for Couples?

Hvar is well known for romance. Also, Messina is still popular, but not quite as popular for its romantic activities.

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.

Messina makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. Most visitors see the city as an arrival or departure point for Sicily, but those couples who linger will appreciate a number of historical sights and a nice atmosphere.

Is Messina or Hvar Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Hvar is renowned for backpackers. Also, Messina 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.

Plenty of backpackers visit Messina. If you're traveling by train or ferry, you'll likely arrive or depart from this city. There are a number of hostels and cheap guesthouses around town that offer affordable accommodation.

Is Messina or Hvar Better for Students?

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

Messina is a good port city to visit for students. There are a few study abroad opportunities that bring international students to town. The city also have good transportation connections and a friendly atmosphere that is welcoming to students.

Hvar is not popular with students.

Is Messina 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 Messina and Hvar.

You'll find some public transit in Messina, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. If your legs are tired then there's an efficient bus system that you can use.

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 Messina or Hvar a more walkable city?

Messina 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.

Messina is a very walkable port city. Most of the city's attractions can be reached on foot and the port is a ten to fifteen minute walk from Piazza del Duomo.

Hvar is a somewhat walkable port 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 Messina Worth Visiting? and Is Hvar Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Hvar or Messina?

How long in Messina or Hvar?

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

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

Visitors enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the destination of Messina. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything.

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 Messina or Hvar?

Messina 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 Messina or Hvar?

You'll find museums and nightlife around the local destination of Messina. 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 Messina or Hvar?

The bustling port city of Messina offers nightlife and food. 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 Food and Culinary Tours in Italy, The Best Romantic Tours for Couples in Italy, The Best One Week (7-Day) Tours in Croatia, and The Best 2-Week Tours in Croatia.

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

Which is Bigger, Messina or Hvar?

Messina has a larger population, and is about 70 times larger than the population of Hvar. When comparing the sizes of Messina 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 Messina 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 Messina or Hvar in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Messina and Hvar. The summer months attract visitors to Messina because of the beaches, the city activities, and the family-friendly experiences. Also, the beaches, snorkeling, the hiking, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Hvar this time of year.

In the summer, Messina is around the same temperature as Hvar. Typically, the summer temperatures in Messina in July average around 27°C (80°F), and Hvar averages at about 26°C (80°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Hvar this time of the year. In Messina, it's very sunny this time of the year. Messina usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Hvar during summer. Messina gets 332 hours of sunny skies, while Hvar receives 345 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Messina usually receives less rain than Hvar. Messina gets 19 mm (0.8 in) of rain, while Hvar receives 28 mm (1.1 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Messina or Hvar in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Messina as well as Hvar. The city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene are the main draw to Messina this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Hvar for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

In October, Messina is generally a little warmer than Hvar. Daily temperatures in Messina average around 21°C (69°F), and Hvar fluctuates around 18°C (64°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Hvar. In the autumn, Messina often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Hvar. Messina gets 189 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Hvar receives 200 hours of full sun.

Messina receives a lot of rain in the autumn. Messina usually gets more rain in October than Hvar. Messina gets 109 mm (4.3 in) of rain, while Hvar receives 79 mm (3.1 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Messina or Hvar in the Winter?

Both Hvar and Messina are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Messina for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, many visitors come to Hvar in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Messina is a little warmer than Hvar in the winter. The daily temperature in Messina averages around 13°C (55°F) in January, and Hvar fluctuates around 8°C (47°F).

Messina usually receives less sunshine than Hvar during winter. Messina gets 115 hours of sunny skies, while Hvar receives 128 hours of full sun in the winter.

It's quite rainy in Messina. In January, Messina usually receives more rain than Hvar. Messina gets 113 mm (4.5 in) of rain, while Hvar receives 83 mm (3.3 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Messina or Hvar in the Spring?

Both Hvar and Messina during the spring are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Messina in the spring for the beaches and the activities around the city. Furthermore, most visitors come to Hvar for the beaches and the natural beauty during these months.

In the spring, Messina is around the same temperature as Hvar. Typically, the spring temperatures in Messina in April average around 16°C (60°F), and Hvar averages at about 15°C (59°F).

In Hvar, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Messina. In the spring, Messina often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Hvar. Messina gets 207 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Hvar receives 212 hours of full sun.

Messina usually gets less rain in April than Hvar. Messina gets 60 mm (2.4 in) of rain, while Hvar receives 66 mm (2.6 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Hvar and Messina