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

Should you visit Tartu 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 Tartu 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.

Tartu

Tartu is a cultural, historical, and lively university town. Tartu is a beautiful place to visit, too. And you can't forget about the nightlife. See Tartu travel costs.

Hvar

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

Tartu and Hvar: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Tartu or Hvar?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Hvar. Although Tartu and Hvar are both popular with visitors, Hvar has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Hvar is more popular for its museums and attractions, food, nightlife, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, hiking, shopping, and impressive beauty, while Tartu is known for its historical sights. Hvar is more touristy than Tartu and is popular for its wild parties, beautiful buildings, and world class cuisine. It is also home to Hvar Fort. Tartu is popular for its vibrant student population and long running university.

How is Tartu different from Hvar?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

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

Tartu does not have museums and landmarks.

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

Hvar is a great island for its local flavors and cuisine. However, Tartu is not known for its local cuisine and restaurants.

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.

Tartu offers some easy restaurants to choose from. The restaurant scene is surprisingly limited because of the large student population. Most students prefer saving their money for a night out drinking over a quiet meal at a restaurant. There are some cafes around town as well as pastry shops and a few good ethnic restaurants to choose between.

Is Tartu or Hvar Better for Nightlife?

Hvar is an amazing island to visit for its evening party scene. Also, Tartu is not as popular, but is still a nice university town for nightlife.

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.

Tartu offers plenty to do in the evening. With its huge student population, there is plenty of activity year round. The nightlife scene includes many bars, dance clubs, and pubs that are popular with students and visitors alike. You'll find large parties and music festivals throughout the year that bring crowds to the city.

Is Tartu or Hvar Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Hvar is a island with good options for snorkeling and scuba diving. However, Tartu 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.

Tartu is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Tartu or Hvar Better for Beaches?

Hvar is a great island for the beach. However, Tartu is not a beach destination.

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.

Tartu is not a beach destination.

Is Tartu or Hvar Better for its Old Town?

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

Tartu is an extremely popular place to visit the historic old town area. The old town is where you'll find one of the oldest universities in Northern Europe. There is also Town Hall Square and St. John’s Quarter with many historic buildings and beautiful architecture.

Hvar does not have a historic old town.

Is Tartu or Hvar Better for Hiking?

Hvar is a island with good options for hiking. However, Tartu 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.

Tartu is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Tartu or Hvar?

Hvar is a island with good options for its shopping areas. However, Tartu is not known for shopping.

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.

Tartu is a good destination for shopping. While most people don't visit to go shopping, there is an active art scene in town so you can find some creative pieces that are worth checking out.

Is Tartu or Hvar More Beautiful?

Hvar is a great island for its scenery and beauty. Also, Tartu is not as popular, but is still a nice university town for its scenery and beauty.

With stunning beauty, Hvar attracts visitors from all around. It's a beautiful island with nice beaches and charming buildings.

Tartu is a gorgeous place to visit. It's a beautiful city with a long history and a number of unique historical buildings.

Is Tartu or Hvar Better for Families?

Hvar is a great island for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Tartu is not as popular, but is still a nice university 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.

Tartu is a family-friendly place to visit. Many of the kid-friendly activities are outdoors, so summer visits are better if you're traveling with children. There are adventure parks, animal parks, and educational museums that you can choose from.

Is Tartu or Hvar Better for Couples?

Hvar is a great island for couples. However, Tartu is not known 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.

Tartu is not the best destination for a couple to visit. The city has a young population, so you'll find many activities center around a more youthful vibe. There are some great museums that couples will enjoy, as well as a lively nightlife scene. Outside of old town, couples will enjoy wandering through the Karlova and Supilinn districts.

Is Tartu or Hvar Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Hvar is an amazing island to visit for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Tartu is not as popular, but is still a nice university town 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.

Backpackers come from all over to visit Tartu. With it's young population and budget friendly entertainment options, there are many things that backpackers will enjoy. It's not nearly as popular with backpackers as some other cities, but that doesn't mean it doesn't have a lot to offer.

Is Tartu or Hvar Better for Students?

Tartu is renowned for students. However, Hvar is not popular with students.

Tartu is a very popular university town for students. It is a university town and home to one of the oldest universities in Northern Europe. The student population is large here, with many activities, museums, and nightlife options to choose from. There always seems to be something going on in this vibrant city.

Hvar is not popular with students.

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

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

While Tartu offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. There is a comprehensive bus system around the town.

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

Is Tartu or Hvar a more walkable city?

Tartu 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.

Tartu is a very walkable university town. The city is compact with most of its sights and restaurants close together along a couple of streets.

Hvar is a somewhat walkable university 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 Tartu Worth Visiting? and Is Hvar Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Hvar or Tartu?

How long in Tartu or Hvar?

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

Families should spend more time in Hvar than Tartu. 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 Tartu. 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 Tartu 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 Tartu or Hvar?

Visitors enjoy the nightlife when visiting the destination of Tartu. 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 vibrant 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 Tartu or Hvar?

Tartu 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 Tartu or Hvar?

You'll find nightlife around the intellectual destination of Tartu. This university town 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 Tartu or Hvar?

The lively university town of Tartu offers 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.

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 Romantic Tours for Couples in Estonia, The Best Budget Tours to Estonia, 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 Tartu and Hvar, we can see that Hvar is more expensive. And not only is Tartu much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Tartu would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Tartu 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 Hvar would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Hvar than you might in Tartu.

If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is Tartu Expensive? and Is Hvar Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Tartu or Hvar?

Tartu has a larger population, and is about 30 times larger than the population of Hvar. When comparing the sizes of Tartu 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 Tartu 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 Tartu or Hvar in the Summer?

Both Hvar and Tartu during the summer are popular places to visit. The summer months attract visitors to Tartu because of the family-friendly experiences. Furthermore, the beaches, snorkeling, the hiking, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Hvar this time of year.

In July, Tartu is generally much colder than Hvar. Daily temperatures in Tartu average around 17°C (62°F), and Hvar fluctuates around 26°C (80°F).

In Hvar, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Tartu. In the summer, Tartu often gets less sunshine than Hvar. Tartu gets 265 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Hvar receives 345 hours of full sun.

Tartu usually gets more rain in July than Hvar. Tartu gets 71 mm (2.8 in) of rain, while Hvar receives 28 mm (1.1 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Tartu or Hvar in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Tartu and Hvar. The shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Tartu this time of year. Furthermore, many travelers come to Hvar for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

Tartu is much colder than Hvar in the autumn. The daily temperature in Tartu averages around 6°C (43°F) in October, and Hvar fluctuates around 18°C (64°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Hvar this time of the year. Tartu usually receives less sunshine than Hvar during autumn. Tartu gets 86 hours of sunny skies, while Hvar receives 200 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Tartu usually receives less rain than Hvar. Tartu gets 52 mm (2 in) of rain, while Hvar receives 79 mm (3.1 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Tartu or Hvar in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Tartu as well as Hvar. Many travelers come to Tartu for the shopping scene and the cuisine. Additionally, many visitors come to Hvar in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Be prepared for some very cold days in Tartu. In the winter, Tartu is much colder than Hvar. Typically, the winter temperatures in Tartu in January average around -7°C (19°F), and Hvar averages at about 8°C (47°F).

In the winter, Tartu often gets less sunshine than Hvar. Tartu gets 36 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Hvar receives 128 hours of full sun.

Tartu usually gets less rain in January than Hvar. Tartu gets 29 mm (1.1 in) of rain, while Hvar receives 83 mm (3.3 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Tartu or Hvar in the Spring?

Both Hvar and Tartu are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Tartu in the spring for the natural beauty. Also, most visitors come to Hvar for the beaches and the natural beauty during these months.

Tartu can get quite cold in the spring. In April, Tartu is generally much colder than Hvar. Daily temperatures in Tartu average around 5°C (41°F), and Hvar fluctuates around 15°C (59°F).

It's quite sunny in Hvar. Tartu usually receives less sunshine than Hvar during spring. Tartu gets 180 hours of sunny skies, while Hvar receives 212 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Tartu usually receives less rain than Hvar. Tartu gets 33 mm (1.3 in) of rain, while Hvar receives 66 mm (2.6 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Hvar and Tartu