A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers San Remo vs. Hvar for Nightlife, Backpackers, Food, and Beaches

Should you visit San Remo or Hvar?

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

Should I visit San Remo 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.

San Remo

San Remo is a authentic, historic, and relaxing coastal city. 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 beaches.

Hvar

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

San Remo and Hvar: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in San Remo or Hvar?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Hvar. Although San Remo and Hvar are both popular with visitors, Hvar has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Hvar is more popular for its museums, nightlife, scuba diving & snorkeling, and hiking, while San Remo is known for its historical sights. Hvar is more touristy than San Remo and is popular for its wild parties, beautiful buildings, and world class cuisine. It is also home to Hvar Fort. San Remo is popular for its olives, lemons, and flower market.

How is San Remo different from Hvar?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in San Remo or Hvar?

Hvar is a popular place for its museums and history. However, San Remo does not have museums and landmarks.

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.

San Remo does not have museums and landmarks.

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

Local dishes at restaurants are fun to try in both San Remo and Hvar.

San Remo has a number of nationally recognized food spots and restaurants. The local restaurants are charming and sell a number of local specialties. Many traditional dishes are made with rabbit or chicken. There are also vegetable pies and sardenaira, which is a type of pizza that's made with tomatoes, garlic, and anchovies. Also make sure you pick up Baci di Sanremo, which are soft chocolate biscuits that are available in local bakeries.

With its innovative style combined with traditional elements, Hvar makes for a great culinary experience. 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 San Remo or Hvar Better for Nightlife?

Hvar is terrific for its evening party scene. Also, San Remo is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for nightlife.

Hvar is a must-see party destination. 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.

San Remo has an active nightlife scene for those who seek it out. The city has a number of clubs and bars where you can enjoy a drink or hang out late into the evening. It's a pretty mellow nightlife scene, but there's still plenty of places to go as well as a local vibe that doesn't have the influx of tourists that you find in many of other Italian cities.

Is San Remo or Hvar Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Hvar is a popular place for snorkeling and scuba diving. However, San Remo 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.

San Remo is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is San Remo or Hvar Better for Beaches?

For a relaxing beach holiday, both San Remo and Hvar are excellent choices.

San Remo is considered a top beach destination. The beautiful sandy beaches are nice to visit and it's possible to rent chairs and umbrellas in many places. The main beach in town is Spiaggia dei Porti. Other popular nearby beaches include Spiaggia dei tre ponti, which is a large public beach, and Cala degli Orsi, which is one of the most beautiful public beaches in the area.

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.

Is San Remo or Hvar Better for its Old Town?

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

San Remo is an extremely popular place to visit the historic old town area. The old quarter of Pigna is a Medieval area with narrow streets that feel as if they're frozen in time. The hills offer impressive city views and the area has a unique historic character.

Hvar does not have a historic old town.

Is San Remo or Hvar Better for Hiking?

Hvar is a popular place for its hiking trails. However, San Remo 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.

San Remo is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in San Remo or Hvar?

Shoppers can find a variety of good stores in both San Remo and Hvar.

San Remo has a variety of shopping areas worth visiting. There are local and international brands as well as a shopping mall and outlets where you can enjoy shopping.

Hvar is a great destination for shopping. 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 San Remo or Hvar Better for Families?

Kids will enjoy a visit to either San Remo or Hvar.

You'll find plenty of family-friendly things to do in San Remo. The area offers plenty of outdoor activities that the whole family will enjoy. There's horseback riding, hiking, rowing, snorkeling, cooking classes, farm tours and more. There are also a number of hotels in the area that have kid-friendly activities.

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 San Remo or Hvar Better for Couples?

With fun activities for couples, both San Remo and Hvar make for a excellent place to visit.

San Remo makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. It's known as the city of flowers, and the many beautiful gardens make this a truly romantic place to visit. Couples will enjoy soaking up the city's history and enjoy the vibrant culture and outdoor activities that are available.

Couples visit Hvar frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. 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 San Remo or Hvar Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Hvar is terrific for backpackers and budget travelers. However, San Remo is lacking in good options 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.

San Remo is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. There aren't many hostels in town, and most backpackers head to more popular Italian destinations. If you're looking for a more off-the-beaten path destination, then this may be your style.

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

Visitors will find good public transit in both San Remo and Hvar.

San Remo has some public transit options. There are local buses around town.

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 San Remo or Hvar a more walkable city?

San Remo 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.

San Remo is a very walkable coastal city. The old quarter is fun to explore on foot and there are a number of walking tours through town.

Hvar is a somewhat walkable coastal 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 San Remo Worth Visiting? and Is Hvar Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Hvar or San Remo?

How long in San Remo or Hvar?

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

Couples should spend more time in Hvar than San Remo. 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 San Remo 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 San Remo or Hvar?

Visitors enjoy the shopping and nightlife when visiting the destination of San Remo. 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 island of Hvar offers museums and nightlife. Most people come for the beaches. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

A weekend in San Remo or Hvar?

San Remo is a fun place to experience. If you have a weekend, this is a great place to go. It's also a great beach destination, too. 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.

Hvar is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have a weekend, this island makes for a great vacation. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Hvar, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Five days in San Remo or Hvar?

You'll find food and shopping around the relaxing destination of San Remo. This coastal city 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 popular choice for travelers. It's no surprise that nightlife is why people visit. 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. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

A week in San Remo or Hvar?

The relaxing coastal city of San Remo offers shopping and nightlife. 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.

Hvar is a great place to explore. It's no surprise that nightlife is why people visit. It's also a great beach destination, too. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. This island offers something for everyone.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Sightseeing Tours in Italy, The Best Vineyard & Wine 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 San Remo and Hvar, we can see that San Remo 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 San Remo would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in San Remo 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 San Remo Expensive? and Is Hvar Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, San Remo or Hvar?

San Remo has a larger population, and is about 10 times larger than the population of Hvar. When comparing the sizes of San Remo 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 San Remo 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 San Remo or Hvar in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to San Remo as well as Hvar. Many visitors come to San Remo in the summer for the beaches 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 July, San Remo is generally cooler than Hvar. Daily temperatures in San Remo average around 23°C (73°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 San Remo this time of the year. In the summer, San Remo often gets less sunshine than Hvar. San Remo gets 295 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Hvar receives 345 hours of full sun.

San Remo usually gets less rain in July than Hvar. San Remo 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 San Remo or Hvar in the Autumn?

Both Hvar and San Remo are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to San Remo for the shopping 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.

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

It's quite sunny in Hvar. San Remo usually receives less sunshine than Hvar during autumn. San Remo gets 183 hours of sunny skies, while Hvar receives 200 hours of full sun in the autumn.

It's quite rainy in San Remo. In October, San Remo usually receives more rain than Hvar. San Remo gets 108 mm (4.3 in) of rain, while Hvar receives 79 mm (3.1 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit San Remo or Hvar in the Winter?

Both Hvar and San Remo during the winter are popular places to visit. The winter months attract visitors to San Remo because of the shopping scene and the cuisine. Furthermore, the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Hvar this time of year.

In the winter, San Remo is around the same temperature as Hvar. Typically, the winter temperatures in San Remo in January average around 9°C (48°F), and Hvar averages at about 8°C (47°F).

In the winter, San Remo often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Hvar. San Remo gets 127 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Hvar receives 128 hours of full sun.

San Remo usually gets around the same amount of rain in January as Hvar. San Remo gets 83 mm (3.3 in) of rain, while Hvar receives 83 mm (3.3 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit San Remo or Hvar in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both San Remo and Hvar. The beaches and the natural beauty are the main draw to San Remo this time of year. Furthermore, many travelers come to Hvar for the beaches and the natural beauty.

In April, San Remo is generally cooler than Hvar. Daily temperatures in San Remo average around 13°C (56°F), and Hvar fluctuates around 15°C (59°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Hvar this time of the year. San Remo usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Hvar during spring. San Remo gets 198 hours of sunny skies, while Hvar receives 212 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, San Remo usually receives around the same amount of rain as Hvar. San Remo gets 62 mm (2.4 in) of rain, while Hvar receives 66 mm (2.6 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Hvar and San Remo