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

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

Siena

Siena is a medieval, history, and beautiful city. You'll find world class beauty here as well. 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. It's also known for nightlife, food, and scuba diving and snorkeling.

Siena and Hvar: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Siena or Hvar?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Hvar. Although Siena and Hvar are popular destinations, Hvar has more sights and attractions for tourists. Hvar is very popular for its nightlife, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, and hiking, while Siena attracts visitors for its museums, historical sights, and impressive beauty. Hvar is more touristy than Siena and is known for its wild parties, beautiful buildings, and world class cuisine. It is also well known for Hvar Fort. Siena is famous for its beautiful medieval architecture, its delicious local restaurants, and the twice yearly Palio horserace.

How is Siena different from Hvar?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Siena 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 Siena. At the heart of the city is Cathedral of Santa Maria Assunta and Piazza del Campo. Other world famous sights include Palazzo Pubblico and Museo Civico, Torre del Mangia, and Pinacoteca Nazionale.

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 Siena or Hvar? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Both Siena and Hvar offer superb local cuisine and restaurants.

With its innovative style combined with traditional elements, Siena makes for a great culinary experience. The town is all about local flavors and many restaurants use local ingredients in their dishes. Pecorino of Pienza is the local cheese, and you'll also find many cured meats. Local pasta dishes include wild boar ragu and a local spaghetti. You'll also find local meats such as lamb, rabbit, chicken and pork.

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.

Is Siena or Hvar Better for Nightlife?

Hvar is very popular for nightlife. Also, Siena is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit 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.

With a handful of venues, visitors can find a fairly lively vibe in Siena. The nightlife is laid back and relaxed. Most visitors enjoy socializing in the evening and meeting friends at Piazza del Campo. There are often live performances which you can enjoy as well as many cafes and wine bars around town.

Is Siena or Hvar Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

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

Siena is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Siena or Hvar Better for Beaches?

Hvar is notable for its beaches. However, Siena 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.

Siena is not a beach destination.

Is Siena or Hvar Better for its Old Town?

Siena is renowned for its old town. However, Hvar does not have a historic old town.

The old town of Siena is one of the most recognized in the world. The beautiful old town is filled with medieval brick buildings. At the heart of the city is Piazza del Campo, which is a lively square with many neighborhoods spreading out from there.

Hvar does not have a historic old town.

Is Siena or Hvar Better for Hiking?

Hvar is very good for the nearby hiking options. However, Siena 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.

Siena is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Siena or Hvar?

Both Siena and Hvar are nice shopping destinations.

Siena is a great destination for shopping. The main shopping street in town is Via Banchi di Sopra, which has many boutiques that sell clothing, bags, and other items. The town also has many leather goods, ceramics, and other local items available.

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.

Is Siena or Hvar Better for Families?

Hvar is notable for its family-friendly activities. However, Siena is a mediocre city for its 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.

Siena is not always a place people visit with their families. The beauty and history may be lost to the little ones but there is a great atmosphere that even the young ones will appreciate. Kids will enjoy climbing to the top of Torre del Mangia or visiting one of the many playgrounds around town.

Is Siena or Hvar Better for Couples?

Siena is renowned for its romantic activities. Also, Hvar is not as famous, but is still a good island to visit for couples.

Siena is a great city for couples, as it has plenty to offer. With its impressive beauty and long running history, this is a truly romantic city. The atmosphere is relaxed and there are plazas and neighborhoods that are great for exploring. There are also many great restaurants, superb wine, and world class sights that are not to be missed.

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.

Is Siena or Hvar Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Hvar is very popular for backpackers. Also, Siena is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for backpackers and budget travelers.

Hvar is a mecca for backpackers and 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 Siena. Many backpackers visit Siena as a daytrip from nearby Florence. While there are some affordable places to stay here, the atmosphere isn't as backpacker friendly as nearby Florence.

Is Siena or Hvar Better for Students?

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

Students come from all over to stay in Siena. It's home to one of the oldest universities in Italy, and it's a wonderful study abroad destination for any student who wants to spend some time in Italy.

Hvar is not popular with students.

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

Both Siena and Hvar offer nice public transit options.

Siena has a few public transit options. TIEMME is the bus service that runs in and around town. Many lines pass through the train station and provide service from there.

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

Is Siena or Hvar a more walkable city?

Siena 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.

Siena is a very walkable city. The compact town center is best explored on foot.

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 Siena Worth Visiting? and Is Hvar Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Hvar or Siena?

How long in Siena or Hvar?

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Hvar than Siena 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 Siena or Hvar?

Visitors enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the destination of Siena. 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.

In Hvar, many people enjoy the food and scuba diving and snorkeling that this energetic 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 Siena or Hvar?

Siena is a fun place to experience. 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 Siena or Hvar?

You'll find museums and nightlife around the beautiful destination of Siena. This 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 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 Siena or Hvar?

The charming city of Siena 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 Italy, The Best Hiking & Trekking 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 Siena and Hvar, we can see that Siena 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 Siena would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Siena 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 Siena Expensive? and Is Hvar Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Siena or Hvar?

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

Both destinations experience a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. And since both cities are in the northern hemisphere, summer is in July and winter is in January.

Should I visit Siena or Hvar in the Summer?

Both Hvar and Siena are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Siena for the family-friendly experiences. Also, many visitors come to Hvar in the summer for the beaches, snorkeling, the hiking, and the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Siena is cooler than Hvar. Typically, the summer temperatures in Siena in July average around 23°C (73°F), and Hvar averages at about 26°C (80°F).

It's quite sunny in Hvar. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Siena. Siena usually receives less sunshine than Hvar during summer. Siena gets 316 hours of sunny skies, while Hvar receives 345 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Siena usually receives more rain than Hvar. Siena gets 45 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while Hvar receives 28 mm (1.1 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Siena or Hvar in the Autumn?

Both Hvar and Siena during the autumn are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Siena in the autumn for the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area. Also, most visitors come to Hvar for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area during these months.

In October, Siena is generally cooler than Hvar. Daily temperatures in Siena average around 16°C (61°F), and Hvar fluctuates around 18°C (64°F).

In Hvar, it's very sunny this time of the year. In the autumn, Siena often gets less sunshine than Hvar. Siena gets 177 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Hvar receives 200 hours of full sun.

Siena usually gets more rain in October than Hvar. Siena gets 87 mm (3.4 in) of rain, while Hvar receives 79 mm (3.1 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Siena or Hvar in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Siena and Hvar. Most visitors come to Siena for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months. Also, the winter months attract visitors to Hvar because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Siena is cooler than Hvar in the winter. The daily temperature in Siena averages around 7°C (45°F) in January, and Hvar fluctuates around 8°C (47°F).

Siena usually receives less sunshine than Hvar during winter. Siena gets 105 hours of sunny skies, while Hvar receives 128 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Siena usually receives less rain than Hvar. Siena gets 64 mm (2.5 in) of rain, while Hvar receives 83 mm (3.3 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Siena or Hvar in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Siena as well as Hvar. The spring months attract visitors to Siena because of the natural beauty. Also, the beaches and the natural beauty are the main draw to Hvar this time of year.

In the spring, Siena is cooler than Hvar. Typically, the spring temperatures in Siena in April average around 12°C (54°F), and Hvar averages at about 15°C (59°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Hvar. In the spring, Siena often gets less sunshine than Hvar. Siena gets 192 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Hvar receives 212 hours of full sun.

Siena usually gets around the same amount of rain in April as Hvar. Siena gets 70 mm (2.8 in) of rain, while Hvar receives 66 mm (2.6 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Hvar and Siena