A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Piazza Armerina vs. Hvar for Backpackers, Attractions, Food, and Families

Should you visit Piazza Armerina or Hvar?

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

Which city should you visit? Read on to compare the activities as well as the prices of travel for Piazza Armerina and Hvar. We'll break down costs for accommodation, food, transportation and more to help you learn more about these two destinations. Then, you can figure out if either of these two places are accessible based on your travel budget, schedule, and interests. So, let's dig into it.

Piazza Armerina

Piazza Armerina is a historic, charming, and authentic town. And you can't forget about the food and museums.

Hvar

Hvar is a energetic, party-oriented, and historic island. The beauty of this spot is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. And you can't forget about the scuba diving and snorkeling, beaches, and hiking.

Piazza Armerina and Hvar: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Scenic old town
  • Good for couples and romance
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for nightlife
  • Less family-friendly
  • Less popular with backpackers
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Good scuba and snorkeling destination
  • Popular beach
  • Good for hiking
  • Fun shopping
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Impressive beauty


Is there more to do in Piazza Armerina or Hvar?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Hvar than Piazza Armerina, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Hvar is better known for its food, nightlife, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, hiking, shopping, and impressive beauty, while Piazza Armerina is more popular for its museums and historical sights. Hvar is more touristy than Piazza Armerina and is known for its wild parties, beautiful buildings, and world class cuisine. Also, Hvar is famous for Hvar Fort. Piazza Armerina is well known for it's local atmosphere and its premiere historic sight - the Villa Romana del Casale.

How is Piazza Armerina different from Hvar?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Piazza Armerina or Hvar?

Piazza Armerina
Hvar

Piazza Armerina 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 Piazza Armerina. Most people head to town specifically to visit Villa Romana del Casale, which is a few kilometers away. It's a beautiful Roman villa that can be explored in a few hours. Also in town is an Aragonese Castle and an 18th century Duomo.

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 Piazza Armerina or Hvar? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Piazza Armerina
Hvar

Hvar is notable for its local cuisine and restaurants. Also, Piazza Armerina is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for its restaurants.

Eating is part of the travel experience when you visit Hvar. 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.

Piazza Armerina is becoming an appealing option for foodies. Most visitors pass through town, stopping to visit Villa Romana del Casale. There are some pizzerias and other casual restaurants where you can grab a bite to eat.

Is Piazza Armerina or Hvar Better for Nightlife?

Piazza Armerina
Hvar

Hvar is an unbeatable place for nightlife and partying. However, Piazza Armerina is a mediocre town for its evening party scene.

The nightlife in Hvar is well established with world renowned clubs and venues. 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.

Piazza Armerina doesn't offer many options. While many tourists pass through town with the intent of visiting the Villa Romana del Casale, most don't linger long enough appreciate the town at night.

Is Piazza Armerina or Hvar Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Piazza Armerina
Hvar

Hvar is a good destination for its diving and snorkeling. However, Piazza Armerina is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Grab a mask and fins and explore the underwater scenery 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.

Piazza Armerina is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.


Is Piazza Armerina or Hvar Better for Beaches?

Piazza Armerina
Hvar

Hvar is notable for the beache. However, Piazza Armerina is not a beach destination.

Many people visit Hvar for it's beautiful beaches. 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.

Piazza Armerina is not a beach destination.

Is Piazza Armerina or Hvar Better for its Old Town?

Piazza Armerina
Hvar

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

Piazza Armerina is an extremely popular place to visit the historic old town area. The old town has a bit of authenticity that is missing from some of the more popular Sicilian cities. While it may feel a little worn to some people, those who like to get away from the souvenir shops will appreciate a visit.

Hvar does not have a historic old town.

Is Piazza Armerina or Hvar Better for Hiking?

Piazza Armerina
Hvar

Hvar is a good destination for the nearby hiking options. However, Piazza Armerina is not a hiking destination.

Hvar offers some nice hiking trails. 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.

Piazza Armerina is not a hiking destination.


Is the Shopping Better in Piazza Armerina or Hvar?

Piazza Armerina
Hvar

Hvar is a good destination for its shopping opportunities. However, Piazza Armerina is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Hvar offers some nice shopping areas. 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.

Piazza Armerina is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Piazza Armerina or Hvar Better for Families?

Piazza Armerina
Hvar

Hvar is notable for its family-friendly activities. However, Piazza Armerina is a mediocre town for its kid-friendly activities.

Hvar is a very kid-friendly island. 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.

Piazza Armerina is not always a place people visit with their families. Most people head to the town to explore the Villa Romana del Casale. The beauty and history may not thrill all kids, but if your kids enjoy a bit of history they will likely appreciate a visit. The town also has an Aragonese Castle that you can visit.

Is Piazza Armerina or Hvar Better for Couples?

Piazza Armerina
Hvar

Hvar is notable for its romantic activities. Also, Piazza Armerina is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for couples.

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.

Piazza Armerina is a good town for couples to visit. For history enthusiasts, this is a popular place to visit. Like most visitors, couples will appreciate a visit to the town's main attraction Villa Romana del Casale.


Is Piazza Armerina or Hvar Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Piazza Armerina
Hvar

Hvar is an unbeatable place for backpackers. However, Piazza Armerina is a mediocre town 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.

Piazza Armerina is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. Although it's a popular tourist destination, there are a limited number of hostels in town.

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

Piazza Armerina
Hvar

Both Piazza Armerina and Hvar offer notable public transit options.

Piazza Armerina has a few public transit options. You can reach the town by bus and once there it's possible to explore on foot.

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

Is Piazza Armerina or Hvar a more walkable city?

Piazza Armerina
Hvar

Piazza Armerina 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.

Piazza Armerina is a very walkable town. You can explore most of the old and new towns on foot.

Hvar is a somewhat walkable town. 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 Piazza Armerina Worth Visiting? and Is Hvar Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Hvar or Piazza Armerina?

How long in Piazza Armerina or Hvar?

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

Families should spend more time in Hvar than Piazza Armerina. 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 Piazza Armerina. 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 Piazza Armerina 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.


  • How many days in Piazza Armerina or Hvar? Ideal Length of Stay
    Piazza Armerina 1-2 
    Hvar 2-4

One day in Piazza Armerina or Hvar?

Visitors enjoy the museums and food when visiting the destination of Piazza Armerina. 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.

The beautiful destination of Hvar offers food and scuba diving and snorkeling. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. It's no surprise that nightlife is why people visit. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

A weekend in Piazza Armerina or Hvar?

Piazza Armerina 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.

The island of Hvar offers scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping. People usually spend lots of time at the beach. A weekend here is typical. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything. A weekend is often enough time to do most activities.

Five days in Piazza Armerina or Hvar?

You'll find museums and food around the charming destination of Piazza Armerina. This town 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.

Hvar is a great place to explore. It's also a great beach destination, too. It's no surprise that nightlife is why people visit. This island offers something for everyone. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything.


A week in Piazza Armerina or Hvar?

The historic town of Piazza Armerina offers food 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.

Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Hvar. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Bicycle Tours in Italy, Tours for Outdoor and Nature Lovers in Italy, The Best One Week (7-Day) Tours in Croatia, and The Best 2-Week Tours in Croatia.


Which place is cheaper, Hvar or Piazza Armerina?

These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations.

The average daily cost (per person) in Piazza Armerina is €93, while the average daily cost in Hvar is €102. These costs include accommodation (assuming double occupancy, so the traveler is sharing the room), food, transportation, and entertainment. While every person is different, these costs are an average of past travelers in each destination. What follows is a categorical breakdown of travel costs for Piazza Armerina and Hvar in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Piazza Armerina 56
    Hvar 38
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Piazza Armerina 112
    Hvar 76
Compare Hotels in Piazza Armerina and Hvar

Looking for a hotel in Piazza Armerina or Hvar? Prices vary by location, date, season, and the level of luxury. See below for options and compare which is best for your budget and travel style.

Hotels in Piazza Armerina


Hotels in Hvar


Kayak helps you find the best prices for hotels, flights, and rental cars for destinations around the world. Compare prices for multiple destinations when planning your next trip.


Our Analysis
We've analyzed the average and typical hotel prices based on guest reviews, star ratings, and hotel amenities here: Piazza Armerina Hotel Prices and Hvar Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Piazza Armerina 4.29
    Hvar 47

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Piazza Armerina

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Piazza Armerina:

  • From Catania: Return Transfer to Piazza Armerina & Agrigento: $106

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Hvar

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Hvar:

  • Speedboat Transfer from Hvar Town to Split Airport: $535

Is it cheaper to fly into Piazza Armerina or Hvar?

Prices for flights to both Hvar and Piazza Armerina change regularly based on dates and travel demand. We suggest you find the best prices for your next trip on Kayak, because you can compare the cost of flights across multiple airlines for your prefered dates.





Food
  • Food Meals for one day
    Piazza Armerina 33
    Hvar 38

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Hvar

Also, here are some specific examples of food and dining related activities in Hvar.

  • Hvar Charming Abandoned Village Small Group Tour and Local Dinner: $180
  • Hvar Hidden Gems Tour with Lunch or Dinner: $187
  • Hvar Hidden Gems Small Group Half Day Tour with Lunch or Dinner: $202
  • Hvar Abandoned Village Tour with Local Dinner: $214
  • Private Hvar Wine Tasting Tour with Traditional Dinner: $234
  • Food Tour: Traditional Flavours and Food Sampling on Hvar: $262
  • The Best of Hvar in a Day with Wine tasting and Local Dinner: $273
  • Hvar Small Group Wine Tour and Authentic Dalmatian Dinner: $273

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Piazza Armerina 4.29
    Hvar 7.48

Tours and Activities in Piazza Armerina

Some specific costs of activities, tours, and entrance tickets for Piazza Armerina are as follows:

  • Villa Romana del Casale Guided Tour: $42
  • From Catania: Agrigento-Piazza Armerina Audio-guided Tour: $128
  • Private Tour of Villa Romana del Casale & Valley of Temples: $225
  • Roman Villa del Casale Mosaics Tour: $241

Tours and Activities in Hvar

Some specific costs of activities, tours, and entrance tickets for Hvar are as follows:

  • 1-Hour Battle Archery Game in Hvar Adventure Park: $22
  • 1-Hour Private Paintball Adventure in Park Hvar Jelsa: $23
  • Private Multi-Activity Experience in Adventure Park Hvar Jelsa: $25
  • Walking tour of Hvar with your local guide: $32
  • Pakleni Islands Self-Guided Kayaking Tour: $48
  • Private Half-Day Kayak Experience in Hvar and Pakleni Islands: $49
  • Half-day kayak tour from Hvar town: $65
  • Hvar Island Self-Guided E-Bike Tour: $65
  • Private Hvar Island E-Bike Tour: $68
  • Romantic Sunset Sailing Experience On A Comfort Yacht: $70
  • Experience Romantic Sunset Sailing on a modern 36ft (11m) sail yacht | Hvar: $71
  • Private Hvar Walking Tour: $71

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Piazza Armerina 13
    Hvar 9.18

Sample the Local Flavors in Hvar

Also in Hvar, these are the prices for nightlife and alcohol related activities from various tour providers:

  • Hvar Wine Tasting Experience: $118
  • Hvar Wine tasting small group experience: $131
  • Private Hvar Wine Tasting Tour : $142
  • Wine Tasting Tour: $157
  • Chocolate and Wine Tasting Small Group Tour from Hvar: $175


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


Which is Bigger, Piazza Armerina or Hvar?

Piazza Armerina has a larger population, and is about 6 times larger than the population of Hvar. When comparing the sizes of Piazza Armerina 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 Piazza Armerina 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 Piazza Armerina or Hvar in the Summer?

Both Hvar and Piazza Armerina are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Piazza Armerina for the family-friendly experiences during these months. Also, the summer months attract visitors to Hvar because of the beaches, snorkeling, the hiking, and the family-friendly experiences.

Piazza Armerina is around the same temperature as Hvar in the summer. The daily temperature in Piazza Armerina averages around 26°C (79°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 Piazza Armerina. Piazza Armerina usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Hvar during summer. Piazza Armerina gets 325 hours of sunny skies, while Hvar receives 345 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Piazza Armerina usually receives less rain than Hvar. Piazza Armerina gets 2 mm (0.1 in) of rain, while Hvar receives 28 mm (1.1 in) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Piazza Armerina 26°C (79°F) 
    Hvar 26°C (80°F)

Should I visit Piazza Armerina or Hvar in the Autumn?

Both Hvar and Piazza Armerina during the autumn are popular places to visit. Also, the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Hvar this time of year.

In the autumn, Piazza Armerina is around the same temperature as Hvar. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Piazza Armerina in October average around 19°C (67°F), and Hvar averages at about 18°C (64°F).

In Hvar, it's very sunny this time of the year. In the autumn, Piazza Armerina often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Hvar. Piazza Armerina gets 189 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Hvar receives 200 hours of full sun.

Piazza Armerina usually gets around the same amount of rain in October as Hvar. Piazza Armerina gets 75 mm (2.9 in) of rain, while Hvar receives 79 mm (3.1 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Piazza Armerina 19°C (67°F) 
    Hvar 18°C (64°F)

Should I visit Piazza Armerina or Hvar in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Piazza Armerina and Hvar. The museums and the cuisine are the main draw to Piazza Armerina this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Hvar for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

In January, Piazza Armerina is generally a little warmer than Hvar. Daily temperatures in Piazza Armerina average around 10°C (51°F), and Hvar fluctuates around 8°C (47°F).

Piazza Armerina usually receives more sunshine than Hvar during winter. Piazza Armerina gets 153 hours of sunny skies, while Hvar receives 128 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Piazza Armerina usually receives less rain than Hvar. Piazza Armerina gets 59 mm (2.3 in) of rain, while Hvar receives 83 mm (3.3 in) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Piazza Armerina 10°C (51°F) 
    Hvar 8°C (47°F)

Should I visit Piazza Armerina or Hvar in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Piazza Armerina as well as Hvar. Also, many visitors come to Hvar in the spring for the beaches and the natural beauty.

Piazza Armerina is around the same temperature as Hvar in the spring. The daily temperature in Piazza Armerina averages around 15°C (58°F) in April, and Hvar fluctuates around 15°C (59°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Hvar. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Piazza Armerina this time of the year. In the spring, Piazza Armerina often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Hvar. Piazza Armerina gets 204 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Hvar receives 212 hours of full sun.

Piazza Armerina usually gets less rain in April than Hvar. Piazza Armerina gets 36 mm (1.4 in) of rain, while Hvar receives 66 mm (2.6 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Piazza Armerina 15°C (58°F) 
    Hvar 15°C (59°F)

Typical Weather for Hvar and Piazza Armerina

Piazza Armerina Hvar
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 10°C (51°F) 59 mm (2.3 in) 8°C (47°F) 83 mm (3.3 in)
Feb 11°C (52°F) 47 mm (1.9 in) 9°C (48°F) 68 mm (2.7 in)
Mar 12°C (54°F) 30 mm (1.2 in) 11°C (52°F) 75 mm (3 in)
Apr 15°C (58°F) 36 mm (1.4 in) 15°C (59°F) 66 mm (2.6 in)
May 19°C (65°F) 23 mm (0.9 in) 20°C (67°F) 56 mm (2.2 in)
Jun 23°C (73°F) 6 mm (0.2 in) 23°C (74°F) 51 mm (2 in)
Jul 26°C (79°F) 2 mm (0.1 in) 26°C (80°F) 28 mm (1.1 in)
Aug 26°C (79°F) 14 mm (0.5 in) 26°C (79°F) 50 mm (2 in)
Sep 24°C (74°F) 37 mm (1.5 in) 22°C (72°F) 61 mm (2.4 in)
Oct 19°C (67°F) 75 mm (2.9 in) 18°C (64°F) 79 mm (3.1 in)
Nov 15°C (59°F) 49 mm (1.9 in) 13°C (56°F) 108 mm (4.3 in)
Dec 12°C (53°F) 68 mm (2.7 in) 10°C (49°F) 100 mm (3.9 in)