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

Should you visit Paris or Hvar?

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

Should I visit Paris or Hvar? This is a common question asked by many travelers. By figuring out which city has activities that align with your interests along with knowing which is more affordable, you'll understand where you can get more bang for your buck. So, let's dive into the details and the data, which all comes from actual travelers.

Paris

Paris is a bustling, energetic, and beautiful 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 museums, theater, and nightlife.

Hvar

Hvar is a party-oriented, historic, and beautiful island. This is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. Other reasons to visit include hiking, shopping, and museums.

Paris and Hvar: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Paris or Hvar?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Paris. Although Paris and Hvar are popular destinations, Paris has more sights and attractions for tourists. Paris is very popular for its museums, theatre productions, food, music, shopping, big city activities, and impressive beauty, while Hvar attracts visitors for its scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, and hiking. Paris is famous for its world-renowned cuisine, iconic landmarks, trendsetting fashion, and dynamic markets. It is also well known for The Eiffel Tower. Hvar is famous for its wild parties, beautiful buildings, and world class cuisine.

The Eiffel Tower

How is Paris different from Hvar?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Paris 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 Paris are among the most recognizable in the world. One of the most world famous landmarks is the Eiffel Tower. The city is also home to the world renowned Louvre, Notre-Dame, and Palais Garnier Opera House. In addition to the many iconic sights, there are beautiful buildings and hidden gems throughout the city.

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 Paris or Hvar Better for Theater?

Paris is renowned for its theatre productions. However, Hvar is not a theatre destination.

Visitors will find world class theater shows, plays, and musicals in Paris that are not to be missed. There are world class theaters as well as smaller local venues where you can enjoy a show.

Hvar is not a theatre destination.

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

Paris 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 Paris have been singled out for their culinary prowess. There are countless local restaurants, markets, and patisseries to explore. Make sure you try the steak tartare, pate, and macarons.

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 Paris or Hvar Better for Nightlife?

The vibe at night is terrific in both Paris and Hvar.

Paris is a must-see party destination. Head to Pigalle or the Latin Quarter for some of the city's best nightlife. There are all-night parties, cabarets, and exclusive night clubs that you can experience.

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.

Is Paris or Hvar Better for Music?

Paris 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 Paris Some of the most famous music venues include Le Pop In, La Mécanique Ondulatoire, and Les Disquaires. You'll also find many small bars where you can enjoy live music in a quaint setting.

Hvar is not a live music destination.

Is Paris or Hvar Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Hvar is a popular place for the nearby scuba diving and snorkeling. However, Paris is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Hvar has a few good snorkeling spots. 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.

Paris is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Paris or Hvar Better for Beaches?

Hvar is great for its beaches. However, Paris is not a beach destination.

Hvar is considered a top beach destination. 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.

Paris is not a beach destination.

Is Paris or Hvar Better for Hiking?

Hvar is a popular place for hiking. However, Paris is not a hiking destination.

Hvar is a good destination for hiking. 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.

Paris is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Paris or Hvar?

Paris 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 Paris make it a world-class shopping destination. Some of the best areas for shopping are Boulevard Haussmann and the Grands Boulevards, the Marais, and Avenue Montaigne and the Champs-Elysées. The city is iconic for its fashion scene and world class shopping venues.

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 Paris or Hvar Better for Christmas?

Paris is renowned for its Christmas activities. However, Hvar does not offer Christmas activities.

Paris is a fantastic destination at Christmas. The city of lights really proves itself around the holiday season. In addition to checking out the Christmas lights, it's fun to go window shopping or check out one of the city's Christmas markets.

Hvar does not offer Christmas activities.

Is Paris or Hvar Better for Families?

Paris is renowned for its family-friendly activities. Also, Hvar is not as famous, but is still a good island to visit for its kid-friendly activities.

Paris is an extremely popular city to visit for families. Check out Jardin du Luxembourg, or one of the city's many playgrounds. Also grab a treat at one of the city's many patisseries. And of course, there's Disneyland Paris.

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 Paris or Hvar Better for Couples?

Paris is renowned for its romantic activities. Also, Hvar is not as famous, but is still a good island to visit for couples.

Paris is a great city for couples, as it has plenty to offer. A city filled with romance, you really can't find a more ideal destination for a European honeymoon or a couple's getaway.

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 Paris or Hvar Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

For backpackers, both Paris and Hvar are terrific places to visit.

Many backpackers frequent Paris. It's a big city, so it's easy to get lost in the chaos, but there are many hostels and other backpacker hangouts around town.

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.

Is Paris or Hvar Better for Students?

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

Paris is a very popular city for students. The city is one of the most popular destinations for international and study abroad students.

Hvar is not popular with students.

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

Paris 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.

Paris has a great public transit system. The city's metro system is very comprehensive. There's also a bus system that you can use to get around.

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

Is Paris or Hvar a more walkable city?

Paris 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.

Paris is a very walkable city. Some streets can feel a bit overwhelming, but there are many parts of the city that are easily explored 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 Paris Worth Visiting? and Is Hvar Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Hvar or Paris?

How long in Paris or Hvar?

It's fun to spend time in either Paris or Hvar. Generally, people tend to spend more time in Paris due to the larger number of activities and things to do. Usually, 3-7 days is a good amount of time for Paris, and 2-4 days is enough time in Hvar.

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

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

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

One day in Paris or Hvar?

Paris is a big city destination where you can fill many days. 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, many people enjoy the food and scuba diving and snorkeling that this historic 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 Paris or Hvar?

Paris is a fun place to experience. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than a weekend exploring. 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 Paris or Hvar?

Paris is a iconic big city where you can fill many days. This city offers something for everyone. 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 Paris or Hvar?

Paris is a beautiful city where you can fill many days. Many people spend one week here. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. Because of this, one week is usually enough time for a trip here.

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 Historical Tours in France, The Best 10-Day Tours in France, 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 Paris and Hvar, we can see that Paris 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 Paris would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Paris 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 Paris Expensive? and Is Hvar Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Paris or Hvar?

Paris has a larger population, and is about 580 times larger than the population of Hvar. When comparing the sizes of Paris 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 Paris 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 Paris or Hvar in the Summer?

Both Hvar and Paris during the summer are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Paris in the summer for the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences. Also, most visitors come to Hvar for the beaches, snorkeling, the hiking, and the family-friendly experiences during these months.

In the summer, Paris is cooler than Hvar. Typically, the summer temperatures in Paris in July average around 20°C (68°F), and Hvar averages at about 26°C (80°F).

In Hvar, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Paris. In the summer, Paris often gets less sunshine than Hvar. Paris gets 241 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Hvar receives 345 hours of full sun.

Paris usually gets more rain in July than Hvar. Paris gets 58 mm (2.3 in) of rain, while Hvar receives 28 mm (1.1 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Paris or Hvar in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Paris and Hvar. Most visitors come to Paris for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area during these months. Also, the autumn months attract visitors to Hvar because of the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

In October, Paris is generally cooler than Hvar. Daily temperatures in Paris average around 13°C (56°F), and Hvar fluctuates around 18°C (64°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Hvar this time of the year. Paris usually receives less sunshine than Hvar during autumn. Paris gets 127 hours of sunny skies, while Hvar receives 200 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Paris usually receives less rain than Hvar. Paris gets 55 mm (2.2 in) of rain, while Hvar receives 79 mm (3.1 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Paris or Hvar in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Paris as well as Hvar. The winter months attract visitors to Paris because of the museums, the Christmas ambience, the shopping scene, the theater shows, and the cuisine. Also, the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Hvar this time of year.

The weather in Paris can be very cold. Paris is much colder than Hvar in the winter. The daily temperature in Paris averages around 5°C (40°F) in January, and Hvar fluctuates around 8°C (47°F).

In the winter, Paris often gets less sunshine than Hvar. Paris gets 62 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Hvar receives 128 hours of full sun.

Paris usually gets less rain in January than Hvar. Paris gets 55 mm (2.2 in) of rain, while Hvar receives 83 mm (3.3 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Paris or Hvar in the Spring?

Both Hvar and Paris are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. The activities around the city and the natural beauty are the main draw to Paris this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Hvar for the beaches and the natural beauty.

In the spring, Paris is cooler than Hvar. Typically, the spring temperatures in Paris in April average around 11°C (52°F), and Hvar averages at about 15°C (59°F).

It's quite sunny in Hvar. Paris usually receives less sunshine than Hvar during spring. Paris gets 172 hours of sunny skies, while Hvar receives 212 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Paris usually receives less rain than Hvar. Paris gets 50 mm (1.9 in) of rain, while Hvar receives 66 mm (2.6 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Hvar and Paris