A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Pompeii vs. Hvar for Attractions, Backpackers, Families, and Couples

Should you visit Pompeii or Hvar?

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

Which city is more affordable and which is best for your travel style? If you're trying to figure out where to go next, comparing the travel costs between Pompeii and Hvar can help you decide which place is right for you.

Pompeii

Pompeii is a ancient, famous, and iconic archeological site. And you can't forget about the museums.

Hvar

Hvar is a historic, beautiful, and vibrant island. With stunning beauty, it attracts visitors from all around. It's also popular because of the shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Pompeii and Hvar: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Pompeii or Hvar?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Hvar. Although Pompeii and Hvar are both popular with visitors, Hvar has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Hvar is more popular for its food, nightlife, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, hiking, shopping, and impressive beauty, while Pompeii is known for its museums. Pompeii is popular for its well preserved archaeological ruins that are still intact following the eruption of Mount Vesuvius. Hvar is popular for its wild parties, beautiful buildings, and world class cuisine. It is also home to Hvar Fort.

How is Pompeii different from Hvar?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Pompeii 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 Pompeii are among the most recognizable in the world. Pompeii is a city frozen in time and it is truly a one-of-a-kind destination. The streets remain as they once stood, lined with shops and homes. Highlights of a visit include the Forum, the Antiquarium, the Temple of Isis, and the Teatro Grande.

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 Pompeii or Hvar? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Hvar is an excellent place to visit for its restaurants. However, Pompeii is lacking in options for its restaurant scene.

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.

While Pompeii is not famous for its food, you'll find what you need there. While there is a café near the Forum, the quality of the food isn't great and it can get crowded. You'd do best to bring your own food as the site is large and you'll want to eat on your own schedule.

Is Pompeii or Hvar Better for Nightlife?

Hvar is renowned for its evening party scene. However, Pompeii is lacking in options for nightlife.

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.

Things get quiet in the evenings in Pompeii. As a popular tourist destination, you'll find some bars nearby, but most people visit as a day trip and head out of town before the evening hours.

Is Pompeii or Hvar Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Hvar is very good for snorkeling and scuba diving. However, Pompeii is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

It's worth going snorkeling or scuba diving 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.

Pompeii is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Pompeii or Hvar Better for Beaches?

Hvar is an excellent place to visit for the beach. However, Pompeii is not a beach destination.

Hvar is a very popular place to visit for its 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.

Pompeii is not a beach destination.

Is Pompeii or Hvar Better for Hiking?

Hvar is very good for its hiking trails. However, Pompeii is not a hiking destination.

Many people include a hike when visiting 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.

Pompeii is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Pompeii or Hvar?

Hvar is very good for its shopping areas. However, Pompeii is lacking in options for shopping.

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.

Pompeii has some shopping areas for those that seek them out. There are some souvenir stands outside of the site where you can buy trinkets to remember your visit.

Is Pompeii or Hvar Better for Families?

You'll find superb kid-friendly activities in either Pompeii or Hvar.

You'll find plenty of family-friendly things to do in Pompeii. Its a city frozen in time, and even kids will get lost in the history and story behind Pompeii. The trick is to find a kid-friendly tour and understand the layout before you arrive. Because it's so big, you want to know which places to visit and which you might want to skip with kids who have short attention spans.

Hvar is 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.

Is Pompeii or Hvar Better for Couples?

Hvar is an excellent place to visit for couples. Also, Pompeii is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for romance.

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.

Pompeii is a nice destination for couples. It's an iconic destination in Italy, and should be added to any Italian trip itinerary. It's not exactly a romantic destination, but it's something that every visitor should see.

Is Pompeii or Hvar Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Hvar is renowned for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Pompeii is not quite as popular, but is fairly good 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.

It's common for backpackers to visit Pompeii. It's touristy and crowded, but also world renowned and not-to-be-missed. Whether you're a backpacker or a luxury traveler, Pompeii is on most itineraries.

Is Pompeii or Hvar Better for Students?

Pompeii is a archeological site with good options for students. However, Hvar is not popular with students.

Pompeii is a good archeological site to visit for students. It's history and educational significance make it a great study abroad destination, whether you visit alone, with friends, or as part of a tour group.

Hvar is not popular with students.

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

Visitors will find good public transit in both Pompeii and Hvar.

Pompeii has some public transit options. Many visitors from Sorrento and Naples arrive via the the Circumvesuviana train. There are also buses from many different locations.

You'll find some public transit in Hvar, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. Buses are operated by Cazmatrans Hva and they travel between the major municipalities.

Is Pompeii or Hvar a more walkable city?

Pompeii 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 Pompeii on foot. You can walk around the entire site in about 4 hours, but you'll really want to allow a full day if you want to see everything in depth.

Hvar is a somewhat walkable archeological site. 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 Pompeii Worth Visiting? and Is Hvar Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Hvar or Pompeii?

How long in Pompeii or Hvar?

It's fun to spend time in either Pompeii 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 Pompeii, and 2-4 days is enough time in Hvar.

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

Visitors enjoy the museums when visiting the destination of Pompeii. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One day is usually enough time to experience most activities.

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 Pompeii or Hvar?

Pompeii is a fun place to experience. Most people visit for the museums. 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 Pompeii or Hvar?

You'll find museums around the iconic destination of Pompeii. This archeological site 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 Pompeii or Hvar?

The famous archeological site of Pompeii offers museums. 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 Romantic Tours for Couples in Italy, The Best Walking 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 Pompeii and Hvar, we can see that Pompeii 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 Pompeii would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Pompeii 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 Pompeii Expensive? and Is Hvar Expensive?.

When is the best time to visit Pompeii 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 Pompeii or Hvar in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Pompeii as well as Hvar. Many travelers come to Pompeii for the family-friendly experiences. Additionally, many visitors come to Hvar in the summer for the beaches, snorkeling, the hiking, and the family-friendly experiences.

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

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Hvar. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Pompeii this time of the year. In the summer, Pompeii often gets less sunshine than Hvar. Pompeii gets 313 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Hvar receives 345 hours of full sun.

Pompeii usually gets around the same amount of rain in July as Hvar. Pompeii gets 26 mm (1 in) of rain, while Hvar receives 28 mm (1.1 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Pompeii or Hvar in the Autumn?

Both Hvar and Pompeii are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. Also, most visitors come to Hvar for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area during these months.

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

It's quite sunny in Hvar. Pompeii usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Hvar during autumn. Pompeii gets 189 hours of sunny skies, while Hvar receives 200 hours of full sun in the autumn.

It's quite rainy in Pompeii. In October, Pompeii usually receives more rain than Hvar. Pompeii gets 132 mm (5.2 in) of rain, while Hvar receives 79 mm (3.1 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Pompeii or Hvar in the Winter?

Both Hvar and Pompeii during the winter are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Pompeii for the museums during these months. Also, the winter months attract visitors to Hvar because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

In the winter, Pompeii is around the same temperature as Hvar. Typically, the winter temperatures in Pompeii in January average around 8°C (47°F), and Hvar averages at about 8°C (47°F).

In the winter, Pompeii often gets less sunshine than Hvar. Pompeii gets 115 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Hvar receives 128 hours of full sun.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Pompeii. Pompeii usually gets more rain in January than Hvar. Pompeii gets 111 mm (4.4 in) of rain, while Hvar receives 83 mm (3.3 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Pompeii or Hvar in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Pompeii and Hvar. Also, the beaches and the natural beauty are the main draw to Hvar this time of year.

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

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Hvar this time of the year. Pompeii usually receives less sunshine than Hvar during spring. Pompeii gets 189 hours of sunny skies, while Hvar receives 212 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Pompeii usually receives around the same amount of rain as Hvar. Pompeii gets 71 mm (2.8 in) of rain, while Hvar receives 66 mm (2.6 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Hvar and Pompeii