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

Should you visit Porto 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 Porto and Hvar can help you decide which place is right for you.

Porto

Porto is a historic, cultural, and cosmopolitan port city. Travelers will also find plenty of sights and attractions here, as it's a big city that attracts lots of visitors. The beauty of this spot is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. And you can't forget about the nightlife, food, and shopping.

Hvar

Hvar is a historic, beautiful, and vibrant island. This is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. Other reasons to visit include nightlife, food, and scuba diving and snorkeling.

Porto and Hvar: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Porto or Hvar?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Porto. Although Porto and Hvar are popular destinations, Porto has more sights and attractions for tourists. Porto is very popular for its museums, food, historical sights, and big city activities, while Hvar attracts visitors for its nightlife, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, and hiking. Hvar is more touristy than Porto and is popular for its wild parties, beautiful buildings, and world class cuisine. Porto is famous for its authentic old town and the local port wine. It is also well known for Cais da Ribeira.

How is Porto different from Hvar?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Porto 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 Porto. With such a long history, there are many landmarks and sights in the city. Popular attractions include the Clérigos Tower, Palácio da Bolsa, and Igreja de São Francisco.

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 Porto or Hvar? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Porto 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 Porto have been singled out for their culinary prowess. The area's cuisine combines the ocean setting with the agriculture of the surrounding area, so you'll enjoy both seafood dishes as well as fresh meats and vegetables. The area is also famous for its Port wines and red wines. There are plenty of cellar tours as well was waterfront seafood restaurants to choose from.

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 Porto or Hvar Better for Nightlife?

Hvar is very popular for nightlife. Also, Porto is not as popular, but is still a nice port city for nightlife and partying.

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.

Porto offers plenty to do in the evening. This city comes to life in the evening, particularly on weekends when locals and tourists alike flock to the many bars, restaurants, and nightclubs.

Is Porto or Hvar Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Hvar is very good for the nearby scuba diving and snorkeling. However, Porto 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.

Porto is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Porto or Hvar Better for Beaches?

Hvar is a great island for its beaches. However, Porto 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.

Porto is not a beach destination.

Is Porto or Hvar Better for its Old Town?

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

Porto is an extremely popular place to visit the historic old town area. Known as Porto Ribeira, the city's historic district is the most visited part of the town. It begins on the banks of the River Douro and climbs into the hills behind it.

Hvar does not have a historic old town.

Is Porto or Hvar Better for Hiking?

Hvar is very good for hiking. However, Porto 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.

Porto is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Porto or Hvar?

If you're looking to go shopping, Porto and Hvar both offer plenty of nice spots.

Plenty of visitors enjoy shopping while in Porto. The city has both your standard shopping mall stores as well as local vendors and boutique shops.

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.

Is Porto or Hvar Better for Families?

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

Porto is a very family-friendly destination. The city has several cool museums including the interactive museum - The World of Discoveries. There are also parks, playgrounds, zoos, and aquariums that you can explore. For families that enjoy being outside, this is a great city. Kids will enjoy spotting street art, riding the funicular, and taking a cellar tour. If the kids need a break from the city, head to the beach for the day.

Hvar is a very kid-friendly port city. 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 Porto or Hvar Better for Couples?

Both Porto and Hvar are superb destinations to visit as a couple.

Porto is a great port city if you're traveling as a couple. You can visit the palaces, enjoy shopping, or dine in a nice Portuguese restaurant. Take a cellar tour and sample port then catch a ride on the funicular. This city has plenty for couples to do on a romantic 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 Porto or Hvar Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

For backpackers, both Porto and Hvar are amazing places to visit.

Many backpackers frequent Porto. By combining world-class activities with affordability, this city has become a popular stop off for backpackers in the area.

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 Porto or Hvar Better for Students?

Porto is notable for students. However, Hvar is not popular with students.

Students come from all over to stay in Porto. The city has a number of good research programs and study abroad opportunities that attract international students from around the world.

Hvar is not popular with students.

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

Porto 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 Porto can get you to some places easily. There is a metro system as well as a bus system. While the metro system does have six lines, most stations aren't close to the tourist attractions, so it likely won't be that helpful to visitors.

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

Is Porto or Hvar a more walkable city?

Porto 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.

Porto is a very walkable port city. The city center is very compact with most of the sights within a short walk of each other. The area is also very hilly, so getting from place to place can require a bit of effort.

Hvar is a somewhat walkable port 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 Porto Worth Visiting? and Is Hvar Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Hvar or Porto?

How long in Porto or Hvar?

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

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

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

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

One day in Porto or Hvar?

Porto 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. 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 Porto or Hvar?

Porto 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.

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 Porto or Hvar?

Porto is a historic big city where you can fill many days. This port 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 Porto or Hvar?

The cultural port city of Porto 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.

You'll find museums and nightlife around the historic 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 Family-Friendly Tours to Portugal, The Best 10-Day Tours in Portugal, 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 Porto and Hvar, we can see that Porto 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 Porto would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Porto 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 Porto Expensive? and Is Hvar Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Porto or Hvar?

Porto has a larger population, and is about 70 times larger than the population of Hvar. When comparing the sizes of Porto 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 Porto 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 Porto or Hvar in the Summer?

Both Hvar and Porto during the summer are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Porto for the city activities and the family-friendly experiences. Furthermore, many visitors come to Hvar in the summer for the beaches, snorkeling, the hiking, and the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Porto is cooler than Hvar. Typically, the summer temperatures in Porto in July average around 21°C (69°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 Porto. In the summer, Porto often gets less sunshine than Hvar. Porto gets 308 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Hvar receives 345 hours of full sun.

Porto usually gets less rain in July than Hvar. Porto gets 16 mm (0.6 in) of rain, while Hvar receives 28 mm (1.1 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Porto or Hvar in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Porto and Hvar. Many visitors come to Porto in the autumn for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area. Furthermore, most visitors come to Hvar for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area during these months.

In October, Porto is generally around the same temperature as Hvar. Daily temperatures in Porto average around 17°C (62°F), and Hvar fluctuates around 18°C (64°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Hvar this time of the year. Porto usually receives less sunshine than Hvar during autumn. Porto gets 184 hours of sunny skies, while Hvar receives 200 hours of full sun in the autumn.

Porto gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In October, Porto usually receives more rain than Hvar. Porto gets 131 mm (5.2 in) of rain, while Hvar receives 79 mm (3.1 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Porto or Hvar in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Porto as well as Hvar. Most visitors come to Porto for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months. Additionally, the winter months attract visitors to Hvar because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Porto is a little warmer than Hvar in the winter. The daily temperature in Porto averages around 10°C (50°F) in January, and Hvar fluctuates around 8°C (47°F).

In the winter, Porto often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Hvar. Porto gets 124 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Hvar receives 128 hours of full sun.

Porto receives a lot of rain in the winter. Porto usually gets more rain in January than Hvar. Porto gets 171 mm (6.7 in) of rain, while Hvar receives 83 mm (3.3 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Porto or Hvar in the Spring?

Both Hvar and Porto are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. The spring months attract visitors to Porto because of the activities around the city and the natural beauty. Also, the beaches and the natural beauty are the main draw to Hvar this time of year.

In the spring, Porto is around the same temperature as Hvar. Typically, the spring temperatures in Porto in April average around 14°C (56°F), and Hvar averages at about 15°C (59°F).

It's quite sunny in Hvar. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Porto. Porto usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Hvar during spring. Porto gets 217 hours of sunny skies, while Hvar receives 212 hours of full sun in the spring.

It's quite rainy in Porto. In April, Porto usually receives more rain than Hvar. Porto gets 112 mm (4.4 in) of rain, while Hvar receives 66 mm (2.6 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Hvar and Porto