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

Should you visit Milan 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 Milan 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.

Milan

Milan is a trendy, chic, and cultural 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 nightlife, live music, and food.

Hvar

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

Milan and Hvar: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Milan or Hvar?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Milan. Although Milan and Hvar are both popular with visitors, Milan has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Milan 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 Milan and is popular for its wild parties, beautiful buildings, and world class cuisine. Milan is popular for its grand squares, dramatic architecture, and its leadership in the fashion world. It is also home to Piazza del Duomo.

How is Milan different from Hvar?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

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

You'll find a good number of museums and monuments packed into Milan. The Milan Cathedral is the most famous landmark in the city, but other sights include Castello Sforzesco, Pinacoteca di Brera, and Sant'Ambrogio.

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 Milan or Hvar? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Milan 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 Milan have been singled out for their culinary prowess. The city has a mix of traditional dishes combined with modernized, trendy restaurants. You can try a new dish by a groundbreaking chef, or sample a long running favorite like risotto alla Milanese.

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 Milan or Hvar Better for Nightlife?

The vibe at night is world-class in both Milan and Hvar.

Milan has a colorful and one-of-a-kind nightlife scene. The city has a huge number of students and young professionals, which make it a fun place with an active nightlife. There are cocktail bars, trendy clubs, and relaxed pubs that you can chose from.

Hvar is a party destination, and you'll find plenty of activity all night long. 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 Milan or Hvar Better for Music?

Milan 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 Milan The diversity of music ranges from classical concerts to techno raves. Popular venues include Blue Note Milan, Santeria Social Club, and Spirit de Milan.

Hvar is not a live music destination.

Is Milan or Hvar Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Hvar is a island with good options for snorkeling and scuba diving. However, Milan 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.

Milan is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Milan or Hvar Better for Beaches?

Hvar is great for the beach. However, Milan is not a beach destination.

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.

Milan is not a beach destination.

Is Milan or Hvar Better for its Old Town?

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

The old town of Milan is one of the most recognized in the world. Known as the Centro Storic, this area is the most popular with tourists. It's where you'll find the most historic buildings and beautiful sights in the city.

Hvar does not have a historic old town.

Is Milan or Hvar Better for Hiking?

Hvar is a island with good options for hiking. However, Milan 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.

Milan is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Milan or Hvar?

Milan 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 Milan make it a world-class shopping destination. Famous as the fashion capital of Italy, shopping is the thing to do here. There are many streets that are lined with the biggest designers in fashion. Make sure you check out Via Monte Napoleone, Via Della Spiga, and Corso Buenos Aires.

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 Milan or Hvar Better for Families?

Hvar is great for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Milan is not as popular, but is still a nice 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.

Milan is a family-friendly place to visit. The city has a science museum and a children's museum, MuBa, that is great for the kids. There are also a number of parks to explore as well as playgrounds where the kids and get out their energy.

Is Milan or Hvar Better for Couples?

Both Milan and Hvar are great destinations for a couple's getaway.

Milan is a great city if you're traveling as a couple. There are many beautiful buildings, excellent shopping, and romantic restaurants that make for a wonderful couple's getaway.

Hvar is a very popular place to visit for couples. 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 Milan or Hvar Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Hvar is an amazing island to visit for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Milan is not as popular, but is still a nice city 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.

Backpackers come from all over to visit Milan. While not as popular with backpackers as some Italian city's, there are a number of hostels and great activities that are fun for visitors.

Is Milan or Hvar Better for Students?

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

Milan is a very popular city for students. It is one of the more popular city's for international students in Italy. It is very livable with a lot of culture and a fun nightlife, so you're sure to have the experience of a lifetime.

Hvar is not popular with students.

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

Milan 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.

Milan has a great public transit system. Options include metro, bus, tram, and train lines.

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

Is Milan or Hvar a more walkable city?

Milan 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 Milan on foot. In particular, the city center is walkable.

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 Milan Worth Visiting? and Is Hvar Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Hvar or Milan?

How long in Milan or Hvar?

It's fun to spend time in either Milan or Hvar. Generally, people tend to spend more time in Milan due to the larger number of activities and things to do. Usually, 1-5 days is a good amount of time for Milan, and 2-4 days is enough time in Hvar.

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Milan 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 Milan.

One day in Milan or Hvar?

Milan 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. One day is usually enough time to experience most activities.

In Hvar, many people enjoy the food and scuba diving and snorkeling that this beautiful destination offers. It's also a great beach destination, too. Lots of people come for the nightlife. This island offers a variety of activities to choose from. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it.

A weekend in Milan or Hvar?

Milan 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.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Hvar. For many, it makes a great getaway for a weekend. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. This would be the perfect place to spend a weekend, as it has just the right amount of activities. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision.

Five days in Milan or Hvar?

Milan is a trendy 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.

Hvar is a fun place to experience. Travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the destination of Hvar. Lots of people come for the nightlife. You'll find plenty of activities on the beach. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything.

A week in Milan or Hvar?

The trendy city of Milan offers shopping and museums. 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.

You'll find museums and nightlife around the party-oriented destination of Hvar. Most people come for the beaches. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. Lots of people come for the nightlife. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Sightseeing Tours in Italy, The Best Vineyard & Wine Tours in Italy, 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 Milan and Hvar, we can see that Milan 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 Milan would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Milan 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 Milan Expensive? and Is Hvar Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Milan or Hvar?

Milan has a larger population, and is about 350 times larger than the population of Hvar. When comparing the sizes of Milan 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 Milan 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 Milan or Hvar in the Summer?

Both Hvar and Milan during the summer are popular places to visit. The summer months attract visitors to Milan because of the city activities, the music scene, 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 July, Milan is generally cooler than Hvar. Daily temperatures in Milan 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 Milan. In the summer, Milan often gets less sunshine than Hvar. Milan gets 250 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Hvar receives 345 hours of full sun.

Milan usually gets more rain in July than Hvar. Milan gets 60 mm (2.4 in) of rain, while Hvar receives 28 mm (1.1 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Milan or Hvar in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Milan and Hvar. The city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Milan this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Hvar for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

Milan is cooler than Hvar in the autumn. The daily temperature in Milan averages around 15°C (58°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. Milan usually receives less sunshine than Hvar during autumn. Milan gets 152 hours of sunny skies, while Hvar receives 200 hours of full sun in the autumn.

Milan gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In October, Milan usually receives more rain than Hvar. Milan gets 103 mm (4 in) of rain, while Hvar receives 79 mm (3.1 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Milan or Hvar in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Milan as well as Hvar. Many travelers come to Milan 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.

Be prepared for some very cold days in Milan. In the winter, Milan is much colder than Hvar. Typically, the winter temperatures in Milan in January average around 5°C (41°F), and Hvar averages at about 8°C (47°F).

In the winter, Milan often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Hvar. Milan gets 119 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Hvar receives 128 hours of full sun.

Milan usually gets less rain in January than Hvar. Milan gets 68 mm (2.7 in) of rain, while Hvar receives 83 mm (3.3 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Milan or Hvar in the Spring?

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

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

It's quite sunny in Hvar. Milan usually receives less sunshine than Hvar during spring. Milan gets 176 hours of sunny skies, while Hvar receives 212 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Milan usually receives more rain than Hvar. Milan gets 76 mm (3 in) of rain, while Hvar receives 66 mm (2.6 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Hvar and Milan