A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Saint-Etienne vs. Hvar for Nightlife, Backpackers, Food, and Families

Should you visit Saint-Etienne 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 Saint-Etienne 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.

Saint-Etienne

Saint-Etienne is a undiscovered, authentic, and historic city. It's a beautiful place to visit, too. And you can't forget about the hiking, museums, and nightlife.

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. Visitors also love the museums, nightlife, and food.

Saint-Etienne and Hvar: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Saint-Etienne or Hvar?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Hvar than Saint-Etienne, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Hvar is more touristy than Saint-Etienne and is popular for its wild parties, beautiful buildings, and world class cuisine. Also, Hvar is famous for Hvar Fort. Saint-Etienne is well known for its industrial and manufacturing past.

How is Saint-Etienne different from Hvar?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Saint-Etienne or Hvar?

Visiting museums and landmarks is a fun activity in both Saint-Etienne and Hvar.

Saint-Etienne offers a variety of museums and landmarks to choose from. There are several great museums in town including the Musée d'Art et d'Industrie, Musée de la Mine, Musée des Verts, and the planetarium.

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 Saint-Etienne or Hvar? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Hvar is great for its local flavors and cuisine. However, Saint-Etienne is not a good destination for its local cuisine and restaurants.

Hvar has a huge number of terrific 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.

Saint-Etienne may not make the list for most foodies, but you'll find what you need while you're in town. Try the many local cheeses which are a defining part of the cuisine in the area. You'll find some local restaurants around town where you can sample local flavors.

Is Saint-Etienne or Hvar Better for Nightlife?

Hvar is an amazing island to visit for nightlife and partying. Also, Saint-Etienne is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its evening party scene.

Hvar has a colorful and one-of-a-kind nightlife scene. 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.

There's a variety of activities in the evening in Saint-Etienne. The nightlife is centered around sipping wine or visiting one of the clubs in town.

Is Saint-Etienne or Hvar Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Hvar is a good destination for its diving and snorkeling. However, Saint-Etienne 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.

Saint-Etienne is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Saint-Etienne or Hvar Better for Beaches?

Hvar is great for the beache. However, Saint-Etienne 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.

Saint-Etienne is not a beach destination.

Is Saint-Etienne or Hvar Better for Hiking?

Hiking trails can be found around both Saint-Etienne and Hvar, and they are notable.

Saint-Etienne offers some nice hiking trails. You'll find several great hikes just outside of town. It's a great way to experience the surrounding countryside.

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.

Is the Shopping Better in Saint-Etienne or Hvar?

Hvar is a good destination for its shopping opportunities. However, Saint-Etienne is not a good destination for its shopping areas.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Hvar. 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.

Saint-Etienne has some good spots for those that want to go shopping. Shopping malls and several boutique shopping areas make up the city's shopping scene.

Is Saint-Etienne or Hvar Better for Families?

Hvar is great for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Saint-Etienne is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its family-friendly activities.

Because of its large number of kid-friendly activities, Hvar is very family-friendly. 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.

Saint-Etienne is a family-friendly place to visit. There are several kid-friendly museums as well as plenty of natural settings just outside of town. Your kids can run around and stretch their legs nearby at Crest of the Partridge or on a rainy day, the planetarium is a fun place to visit.

Is Saint-Etienne or Hvar Better for Couples?

Hvar is great for its romantic activities. However, Saint-Etienne is not a good destination for couples.

Hvar is a great island 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.

Saint-Etienne is not always the best place to visit for a couple. There are museums, parks, gardens, and beautiful architecture that make this a wonderful place for couples.

Is Saint-Etienne or Hvar Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Hvar is an amazing island to visit for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Saint-Etienne is not a good destination for backpackers.

With so many budget-friendly offerings, Hvar is extremely popular 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.

Saint-Etienne is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. It's not high on the backpacker trail, but there are hostels and plenty of activities to enjoy.

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

Saint-Etienne and Hvar both offer notable public transit to get you around.

While Saint-Etienne offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. There are tram and bus options available in town.

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

Is Saint-Etienne or Hvar a more walkable city?

Saint-Etienne and Hvar are notable when it comes to walkability.

Saint-Etienne is a somewhat walkable place. There are several walkable areas in the city.

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 Saint-Etienne Worth Visiting? and Is Hvar Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Hvar or Saint-Etienne?

How long in Saint-Etienne or Hvar?

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

Families should spend more time in Hvar than Saint-Etienne. 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 Saint-Etienne. 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 Saint-Etienne 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 Saint-Etienne or Hvar?

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

Many travelers enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting the historic destination of Hvar. You'll find plenty of activities on the beach. Don't miss the nightlife, as that's what most people do. Your budget might influence how long you stay. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it.

A weekend in Saint-Etienne or Hvar?

Saint-Etienne is a fun place to experience. 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.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Hvar. Most people come for the beaches. Don't miss the nightlife, as that's what most people do. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do. For many, it makes a great getaway for a weekend. A weekend is usually enough time to experience most activities.

Five days in Saint-Etienne or Hvar?

You'll find museums and nightlife around the industrial destination of Saint-Etienne. This city offers something for everyone. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

Travelers enjoy the food and scuba diving and snorkeling when visiting the party-oriented destination of Hvar. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. This island offers a variety of activities to choose from. Five days 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.

A week in Saint-Etienne or Hvar?

The authentic city of Saint-Etienne offers nightlife and 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.

You'll find scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping around the beautiful island of Hvar. People usually spend lots of time at the beach. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Paris, The Best 10-Day Tours from Paris, The Best One Week (7-Day) Tours in Croatia, and The Best 2-Week Tours in Croatia.

When comparing the travel costs between Saint-Etienne and Hvar, we can see that Saint-Etienne 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 Saint-Etienne Expensive? and Is Hvar Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Saint-Etienne or Hvar?

Saint-Etienne has a larger population, and is about 50 times larger than the population of Hvar. When comparing the sizes of Saint-Etienne 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 Saint-Etienne 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 Saint-Etienne or Hvar in the Summer?

Both Hvar and Saint-Etienne during the summer are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Saint-Etienne for the hiking and 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.

Saint-Etienne is cooler than Hvar in the summer. The daily temperature in Saint-Etienne averages around 22°C (71°F) in July, and Hvar fluctuates around 26°C (80°F).

In Hvar, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Saint-Etienne. In the summer, Saint-Etienne often gets less sunshine than Hvar. Saint-Etienne gets 285 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Hvar receives 345 hours of full sun.

Saint-Etienne usually gets more rain in July than Hvar. Saint-Etienne gets 61 mm (2.4 in) of rain, while Hvar receives 28 mm (1.1 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Saint-Etienne or Hvar in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Saint-Etienne and Hvar. The autumn months attract visitors to Saint-Etienne because of the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area. 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, Saint-Etienne is cooler than Hvar. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Saint-Etienne in October average around 14°C (56°F), and Hvar averages at about 18°C (64°F).

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

In October, Saint-Etienne usually receives around the same amount of rain as Hvar. Saint-Etienne gets 78 mm (3.1 in) of rain, while Hvar receives 79 mm (3.1 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Saint-Etienne or Hvar in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Saint-Etienne as well as Hvar. The museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Saint-Etienne this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Hvar for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

It's quite cold in Saint-Etienne in the winter. In January, Saint-Etienne is generally much colder than Hvar. Daily temperatures in Saint-Etienne average around 4°C (39°F), and Hvar fluctuates around 8°C (47°F).

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

Saint-Etienne usually gets less rain in January than Hvar. Saint-Etienne gets 55 mm (2.1 in) of rain, while Hvar receives 83 mm (3.3 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Saint-Etienne or Hvar in the Spring?

Both Hvar and Saint-Etienne are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Saint-Etienne for the natural beauty. Also, many visitors come to Hvar in the spring for the beaches and the natural beauty.

Saint-Etienne is cooler than Hvar in the spring. The daily temperature in Saint-Etienne averages around 11°C (53°F) in April, and Hvar fluctuates around 15°C (59°F).

It's quite sunny in Hvar. Saint-Etienne usually receives less sunshine than Hvar during spring. Saint-Etienne gets 174 hours of sunny skies, while Hvar receives 212 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Saint-Etienne usually receives around the same amount of rain as Hvar. Saint-Etienne gets 65 mm (2.6 in) of rain, while Hvar receives 66 mm (2.6 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Hvar and Saint-Etienne