A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Sestri Levante vs. Hvar for Backpackers, Food, Beaches, and Families

Should you visit Sestri Levante or Hvar?

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

Trying to figure out where to travel next? This travel comparison between Sestri Levante and Hvar can help. It includes a travel cost comparison in addition to other factors. For many travelers, the cost of a destination is a primary consideration when choosing where to go.

Sestri Levante

Sestri Levante is a relaxing, quiet, and scenic seaside town. This is a great small town that is just waiting to be explored. You'll find world class beauty here as well. And you can't forget about the food and beaches.

Hvar

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

Sestri Levante and Hvar: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Sestri Levante or Hvar?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Hvar. Although Sestri Levante 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, beaches, hiking, and shopping, while Sestri Levante is known for its resorts, small town charm, and impressive beauty. Hvar is more touristy than Sestri Levante and is popular for its wild parties, beautiful buildings, and world class cuisine. It is also home to Hvar Fort. Sestri Levante is popular for its two bays and coastal setting.

How is Sestri Levante different from Hvar?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Sestri Levante or Hvar?

Hvar is a island with good options for its historical sights. However, Sestri Levante 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.

Sestri Levante does not have museums and landmarks.

Is the Food Better in Sestri Levante or Hvar? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

There are opportunities to sample the local cuisine at great restaurants in both Sestri Levante and Hvar.

Sestri Levante has a number of nationally recognized food spots and restaurants. You'll find many restaurants along the central road in the old town, Via XXV Aprile. Seafood is popular, as are many other Italian favorites. If you're visiting during the summer months then it's best to make reservations as wait times can be long.

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 Sestri Levante or Hvar Better for Nightlife?

Hvar is renowned for its evening party scene. However, Sestri Levante is not a good destination 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.

People don't go to Sestri Levante for the nightlife. There are a few places to grab a drink, but if you're looking for nightlife, you'll really need to head out of town.

Is Sestri Levante or Hvar Better for Resorts?

Sestri Levante is a seaside town with good options for its resorts. However, Hvar is not a resort destination.

With a selection of resorts, Sestri Levante makes a nice vacation spot. There are a number of hotels in the old town or by the beach. You'll also find a decent selection of vacation rentals. During peak season you'll want to make your reservations early.

Hvar is not a resort destination.

Is Sestri Levante or Hvar Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Hvar is a island with good options for snorkeling and scuba diving. However, Sestri Levante is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

It's fun to get in the water and check out the local marine life 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.

Sestri Levante is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Sestri Levante or Hvar Better for Beaches?

Hvar is great for the beach. Also, Sestri Levante is not as popular, but is still a nice seaside town for its beaches.

The beaches at Hvar attract visitors from all over. 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.

Sestri Levante offers a nice beach destination. Home to two beaches, this makes a nice holiday spot if you're hoping to relax by the water. The beaches can get crowded with Italians during the summer months, but it still offers a charming seaside spot. Many people head to the beach by the the Bay of Silence in part because it's free. Make sure you arrive early. By the Bay of Fairytales you can rent chairs and umbrellas and enjoy a little more space.

Is Sestri Levante or Hvar Better for Hiking?

Hvar is a island with good options for hiking. However, Sestri Levante is not a hiking destination.

Plenty of visitors go hiking around 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.

Sestri Levante is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Sestri Levante or Hvar?

Hvar is a island with good options for its shopping areas. However, Sestri Levante is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

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.

Sestri Levante is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Sestri Levante or Hvar Better for Families?

Hvar is great for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Sestri Levante is not as popular, but is still a nice seaside town for its family-friendly activities.

You'll find plenty of family-friendly things to do in Hvar. 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.

Sestri Levante is a family-friendly place to visit. This is a great spot for families that want a relaxing holiday with a small town vibe. The picturesque setting is said to have inspired fairytales, and today kids will enjoy playing on the playgrounds or exploring at the adventure park. There are also hikes, activities, and restaurants that are great for kids and adults alike.

Is Sestri Levante or Hvar Better for Couples?

Hvar is great for couples. Also, Sestri Levante is not as popular, but is still a nice seaside town for romance.

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.

Sestri Levante is a nice destination for couples. This scenic setting offers a relaxing holiday for couples who want to enjoy quiet time together. There are plenty of outdoor activities and a cultural town with a lot of beauty to explore. It's one of the lesser known destinations in the area, so you will have a peaceful small town vibe that's great for a romantic getaway.

Is Sestri Levante or Hvar Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Hvar is renowned for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Sestri Levante is not a good destination 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.

Sestri Levante is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. There are some dorm rooms in town, but most backpackers head to one of the more well known destinations in the area. The atmosphere and history makes for a unique experience for those who do make the trip.

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

Sestri Levante and Hvar both offer good public transit to get you around.

While Sestri Levante offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. The town can be explored on foot and there are buses and trains that can be used for day trips.

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

Is Sestri Levante or Hvar a more walkable city?

Sestri Levante 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 Sestri Levante on foot. There are pedestrian promenades and charming streets through town that are best explored on foot.

Hvar is a somewhat walkable seaside 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 Sestri Levante Worth Visiting? and Is Hvar Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Hvar or Sestri Levante?

How long in Sestri Levante or Hvar?

It's fun to spend time in either Sestri Levante or Hvar. Generally, people tend to spend more time in Hvar due to the larger number of activities and things to do. Usually, 1-3 days is a good amount of time for Sestri Levante, and 2-4 days is enough time in Hvar.

Families should spend more time in Hvar than Sestri Levante. 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 Sestri Levante. 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 Sestri Levante 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 Sestri Levante or Hvar?

Sestri Levante is a small town where visitors enjoy the food. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One day is usually enough time to experience most activities.

In Hvar, you'll find nightlife and food. Most people come for the beaches. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

A weekend in Sestri Levante or Hvar?

Sestri Levante 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.

Hvar is a great place to explore. It is common to spend a weekend here. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. Anyone can find something fun to do here. Because of this, a weekend is usually enough time for a trip here.

Five days in Sestri Levante or Hvar?

Sestri Levante is a small town, so you can explore the area with less time. This seaside town offers something for everyone. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Hvar. People usually spend lots of time at the beach. It offers something for everyone. One reason most visitors come is for the nightlife. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

A week in Sestri Levante or Hvar?

Because Sestri Levante is a small town, it's easy to explore in a short amount of time. 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.

Travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the island of Hvar. It's also a great beach destination, too. Your budget might influence how long you stay. One reason most visitors come is for the nightlife. 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.

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

Which is Bigger, Sestri Levante or Hvar?

Sestri Levante has a larger population, and is about 5 times larger than the population of Hvar. When comparing the sizes of Sestri Levante 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.