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

Should you visit Naples or Hvar?

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

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

Naples

Naples is a historic, authentic, and gritty city. Travelers will also find plenty of sights and attractions here, as it's a big city 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. With stunning beauty, it attracts visitors from all around. Other popular activities here include food, scuba diving and snorkeling, and beaches.

Naples and Hvar: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Naples or Hvar?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Naples. Although Naples and Hvar are both popular with visitors, Naples has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Naples is more popular for its museums, food, historical sights, shopping, and big city activities, while Hvar is known for its nightlife, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, hiking, and impressive beauty. Hvar is more touristy than Naples and is known for its wild parties, beautiful buildings, and world class cuisine. Naples is popular for its colorful atmosphere, long running history, and influence on world cuisine as the birthplace of pizza. It is also home to Piazza del Plebiscito.

How is Naples different from Hvar?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Naples 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 Naples. Most of the sights are concentrated in the city's historic center. The Naples Harbor is a gateway to the Mediterranean. Also worth visiting are the National Archeological Museum, Capodimonte Royal Palace, Castel Nuovo, and the Catacombs of San Gennaro.

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 Naples or Hvar? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Naples 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 Naples have been singled out for their culinary prowess. As the birthplace of pizza, the city has a well known food reputation. Many local dishes, including an authentic Napoli pizza, use simple flavors such as olive oil, garlic, and tomatoes. The dishes are lighter than their northern counterparts and tomatoes are a very popular ingredient. In addition to the pizza, you should try Lasagna Al Forno Napoletana and Spaghetti Alla Vognole. Also check out a pizza making class.

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 Naples or Hvar Better for Nightlife?

Hvar is a world-class destination for its evening party scene. Also, Naples is still popular, but not quite as popular for nightlife.

People head to Hvar just to party. 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 Naples for the nightlife scene. The nightlife scene includes small bars, wineries, and dance clubs, but much of the energy and activity is actually focused on being outdoors. There is plenty of live music and many nightclubs are actually "disco bars" that are found tucked away in the city's historic center.

Is Naples or Hvar Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

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

Naples is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Naples or Hvar Better for Beaches?

Hvar is well known for the beach. However, Naples 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.

Naples is not a beach destination.

Is Naples or Hvar Better for its Old Town?

Naples is notable for its old town. However, Hvar does not have a historic old town.

Naples is an extremely popular place to visit the historic old town area. Most of the city's tourist attractions are found in the historic center, which includes beautiful fountains, grand churches, and an impressive network of catacombs and caves.

Hvar does not have a historic old town.

Is Naples or Hvar Better for Hiking?

Hvar is a nice place to visit for its hiking experiences. However, Naples 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.

Naples is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Naples or Hvar?

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

Naples is a popular shopping destination with plenty of stores. There are shopping streets and districts that have boutique clothing vendors, high end brands, and major chains. There's plenty of diversity in the shopping scene and some of the best shopping areas include Via Toledo, the Chiaia District, and Poggioreale Market.

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 Naples or Hvar Better for Families?

Hvar is well known for its family-friendly activities. Also, Naples is still popular, but not quite as popular for its kid-friendly activities.

Hvar is known to be 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.

Naples offers lots of family activities. Despite its rough-around-the-edges reputation, the city actually has some fun kid-friendly activities. As the birthplace of pizza, a childhood favorite, eating is a kid approved activity. You can even try your hand at pizza making classes. Other fun kid-friendly activities include exploring the underground city, going to The Science Centre of Citta della Scienza, and running around Parco di Capodimonte.

Is Naples or Hvar Better for Couples?

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

Couples visit Naples frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. Dining on pizza, wine tasting, or taking a cruise on the Gulf of Naples all make this city a great couples destination. There are also many romantic day trips in the area, so many couples use Naples as a base for exploring the region.

Hvar is a great city 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.

Is Naples or Hvar Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Hvar is a world-class destination for backpackers. Also, Naples is still popular, but not quite as popular for backpackers and budget travelers.

Hvar is a very popular island to visit for backpackers. 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.

Naples is very popular with the backpacker crowd. It's more affordable than most of northern Italy, and it has plenty of hostels to choose from. The city makes a great stop for backpackers who want to see a different part of Italy. While not completely off the backpacker trail, Naples is not inundated with tourists the way some other Italian cities are.

Is Naples or Hvar Better for Students?

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

Naples is a good city to visit for students. It's a large city with a lot to see and do. Students also appreciate the many day trips that are available in the area.

Hvar is not popular with students.

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

Naples is notable 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.

Public transit in Naples can get you to some places easily. There's a metro with two metro lines as well as four suburban train lines. There are also funiculars, regional trains, and ferries to the surrounding areas.

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

Is Naples or Hvar a more walkable city?

Naples 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.

Naples is a very walkable city. The historic center is flat and easy to explore on foot.

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 Naples Worth Visiting? and Is Hvar Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Hvar or Naples?

How long in Naples or Hvar?

It's fun to spend time in either Naples or Hvar. Generally, people tend to spend more time in Hvar due to the larger number of activities and things to do. Usually, 1-3 days is a good amount of time for Naples, and 2-4 days is enough time in Hvar.

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

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

Naples 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.

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 Naples or Hvar?

Naples is a fun place to experience. Most people visit for the food. 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 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 Naples or Hvar?

You'll find museums and nightlife around the fascinating big city of Naples. This city offers something for everyone. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

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 Naples or Hvar?

The historic city of Naples 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.

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the energetic 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 Italy, The Best 2-Week 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 Naples and Hvar, we can see that Naples 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 Naples would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Naples 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 Naples Expensive? and Is Hvar Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Naples or Hvar?

Naples has a larger population, and is about 270 times larger than the population of Hvar. When comparing the sizes of Naples 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 Naples 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 Naples or Hvar in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Naples and Hvar. The city activities and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Naples this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Hvar for the beaches, snorkeling, the hiking, and the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Naples is generally cooler than Hvar. Daily temperatures in Naples average around 23°C (74°F), and Hvar fluctuates around 26°C (80°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Hvar this time of the year. In Naples, it's very sunny this time of the year. Naples usually receives less sunshine than Hvar during summer. Naples gets 313 hours of sunny skies, while Hvar receives 345 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Naples usually receives around the same amount of rain as Hvar. Naples gets 26 mm (1 in) of rain, while Hvar receives 28 mm (1.1 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Naples or Hvar in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Naples as well as Hvar. Many travelers come to Naples 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.

Naples is around the same temperature as Hvar in the autumn. The daily temperature in Naples averages around 17°C (63°F) in October, and Hvar fluctuates around 18°C (64°F).

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

Naples receives a lot of rain in the autumn. Naples usually gets more rain in October than Hvar. Naples gets 132 mm (5.2 in) of rain, while Hvar receives 79 mm (3.1 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Naples or Hvar in the Winter?

Both Hvar and Naples are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Naples 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, Naples is around the same temperature as Hvar. Typically, the winter temperatures in Naples in January average around 8°C (47°F), and Hvar averages at about 8°C (47°F).

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

It's quite rainy in Naples. In January, Naples usually receives more rain than Hvar. Naples gets 111 mm (4.4 in) of rain, while Hvar receives 83 mm (3.3 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Naples or Hvar in the Spring?

Both Hvar and Naples during the spring are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Naples for the activities around the city during these months. Furthermore, the spring months attract visitors to Hvar because of the beaches and the natural beauty.

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

In Hvar, it's very sunny this time of the year. In the spring, Naples often gets less sunshine than Hvar. Naples gets 189 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Hvar receives 212 hours of full sun.

Naples usually gets around the same amount of rain in April as Hvar. Naples gets 71 mm (2.8 in) of rain, while Hvar receives 66 mm (2.6 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Hvar and Naples