A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Thiva (Thebes) vs. Hvar for Nightlife, Backpackers, Attractions, and Food

Should you visit Thiva (Thebes) 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 Thiva (Thebes) 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.

Thiva (Thebes)

Thiva (Thebes) is a authentic, vibrant, and historic city. It's a large city, so you'll find plenty of things to do around town. And you can't forget about the nightlife, food, and shopping.

Hvar

Hvar is a vibrant, energetic, and party-oriented island. 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 scuba diving and snorkeling.

Thiva (Thebes) and Hvar: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Family-friendly
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for nightlife
  • Less popular with couples
  • Less popular with backpackers
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Good scuba and snorkeling destination
  • Popular beach
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Impressive beauty


Is there more to do in Thiva (Thebes) or Hvar?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Hvar than Thiva (Thebes), as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Hvar is better known for its food, nightlife, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, hiking, and impressive beauty, while Thiva (Thebes) is more popular for its museums and big city activities. Hvar is more touristy than Thiva (Thebes) and is known for its wild parties, beautiful buildings, and world class cuisine. Also, Hvar is famous for Hvar Fort. Thiva (Thebes) is well known for its standing as one of the oldest cities in the world.

How is Thiva (Thebes) different from Hvar?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Thiva (Thebes) or Hvar?

Thiva (Thebes)
Hvar

Thiva (Thebes) 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 Thiva (Thebes). The city is filled with archeological museums and sights that reflect its long-running history as one of the oldest, continuously inhabited cities in the world.

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 Thiva (Thebes) or Hvar? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Thiva (Thebes)
Hvar

Hvar is a great destination for its restaurant scene. Also, Thiva (Thebes) is still popular, but not quite as popular for its local flavors and cuisine.

Eating is part of the travel experience when you visit Hvar. 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.

Thiva (Thebes) is becoming an appealing option for foodies. It's a large city with restaurants that cater to locals and visitors alike. You can expect high quality ingredients at a fraction of the price that you'll find in more touristy areas.

Is Thiva (Thebes) or Hvar Better for Nightlife?

Thiva (Thebes)
Hvar

Hvar is very popular for nightlife and partying. Also, Thiva (Thebes) is still popular, but not quite as popular for its evening party scene.

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.

If you're looking for night time activities Thiva (Thebes) has a few options to choose from. The city is filled with lively cafes, bars, and pubs that spill out onto the city's vibrant squares.

Is Thiva (Thebes) or Hvar Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Thiva (Thebes)
Hvar

Hvar is a island with good options for its diving and snorkeling. However, Thiva (Thebes) 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.

Thiva (Thebes) is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.


Is Thiva (Thebes) or Hvar Better for Beaches?

Thiva (Thebes)
Hvar

Hvar is a great destination for the beache. However, Thiva (Thebes) 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.

Thiva (Thebes) is not a beach destination.

Is Thiva (Thebes) or Hvar Better for Hiking?

Thiva (Thebes)
Hvar

Hvar is a island with good options for its hiking experiences. However, Thiva (Thebes) 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.

Thiva (Thebes) is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Thiva (Thebes) or Hvar?

Thiva (Thebes)
Hvar

Shopping is a popular activity in both Hvar and Thiva (Thebes).

Thiva (Thebes) offers some nice shopping areas. You'll find all of the normal retail options around town. Many are in shopping centers and malls.

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.


Is Thiva (Thebes) or Hvar Better for Families?

Thiva (Thebes)
Hvar

Hvar is a great destination for its family-friendly activities. Also, Thiva (Thebes) is still popular, but not quite as popular for its kid-friendly activities.

Hvar is a very kid-friendly island. 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.

Thiva (Thebes) offers lots of family activities. Kids who are interested in history will appreciate the many archeological ruins and museums in the city.

Is Thiva (Thebes) or Hvar Better for Couples?

Thiva (Thebes)
Hvar

Hvar is a great destination for its romantic activities. However, Thiva (Thebes) is a city with minimal options for couples.

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.

Thiva (Thebes) is not always the best place to visit for a couple. It's often overlooked as a honeymoon destination in Greece but the history of this long-running city is unique. Today it's a large city but you can still catch glimpses of its past.

Is Thiva (Thebes) or Hvar Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Thiva (Thebes)
Hvar

Hvar is very popular for backpackers. However, Thiva (Thebes) is a city with minimal options for backpackers and budget travelers.

Backpackers and budget travelers come from all over the world to visit Hvar. 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.

Thiva (Thebes) is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. It's not really on the backpacker circuit so their aren't a lot of hostels in town.


Is Thiva (Thebes) or Hvar Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Thiva (Thebes)
Hvar

You'll find somewhat comparable public transit options in both Thiva (Thebes) and Hvar.

You'll find some public transit in Thiva (Thebes), but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. There are local buses in the area.

While Hvar offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. Buses are operated by Cazmatrans Hva and they travel between the major municipalities.

Is Thiva (Thebes) or Hvar a more walkable city?

Thiva (Thebes)
Hvar

Thiva (Thebes) and Hvar both are notable when exploring on foot.

Thiva (Thebes) is a somewhat walkable place. Some areas are more walkable than others.

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 Thiva (Thebes) Worth Visiting? and Is Hvar Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Hvar or Thiva (Thebes)?

How long in Thiva (Thebes) or Hvar?

It's fun to spend time in either Thiva (Thebes) 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 Thiva (Thebes), and 2-4 days is enough time in Hvar.

Families should spend more time in Hvar than Thiva (Thebes). 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 Thiva (Thebes). 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 Thiva (Thebes) 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.


  • How many days in Thiva (Thebes) or Hvar? Ideal Length of Stay
    Thiva (Thebes) 1-2 
    Hvar 2-4

One day in Thiva (Thebes) or Hvar?

Visitors enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the destination of Thiva (Thebes). 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 Thiva (Thebes) or Hvar?

Thiva (Thebes) 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 Thiva (Thebes) or Hvar?

You'll find museums and nightlife around the historic destination of Thiva (Thebes). This city 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 Thiva (Thebes) or Hvar?

The historic city of Thiva (Thebes) offers nightlife and food. 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 Tours for Outdoor and Nature Lovers in Greece, The Best Coach Bus Tours in Greece, The Best One Week (7-Day) Tours in Croatia, and The Best 2-Week Tours in Croatia.


Which place is cheaper, Hvar or Thiva (Thebes)?

These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations.

The average daily cost (per person) in Thiva (Thebes) is €127, while the average daily cost in Hvar is €102. These costs include accommodation (assuming double occupancy, so the traveler is sharing the room), food, transportation, and entertainment. While every person is different, these costs are an average of past travelers in each destination. What follows is a categorical breakdown of travel costs for Thiva (Thebes) and Hvar in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Thiva (Thebes) 61
    Hvar 38
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Thiva (Thebes) 122
    Hvar 76
Compare Hotels in Thiva (Thebes) and Hvar

Looking for a hotel in Thiva (Thebes) or Hvar? Prices vary by location, date, season, and the level of luxury. See below for options and compare which is best for your budget and travel style.

Hotels in Thiva (Thebes)


Hotels in Hvar


Kayak helps you find the best prices for hotels, flights, and rental cars for destinations around the world. Compare prices for multiple destinations when planning your next trip.


Our Analysis
We've analyzed the average and typical hotel prices based on guest reviews, star ratings, and hotel amenities here: Hvar Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Thiva (Thebes) 37
    Hvar 47

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Hvar

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Hvar:

  • Speedboat Transfer from Hvar Town to Split Airport: $535

Is it cheaper to fly into Thiva (Thebes) or Hvar?

Prices for flights to both Hvar and Thiva (Thebes) change regularly based on dates and travel demand. We suggest you find the best prices for your next trip on Kayak, because you can compare the cost of flights across multiple airlines for your prefered dates.





Food
  • Food Meals for one day
    Thiva (Thebes) 41
    Hvar 38

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Hvar

Also, here are some specific examples of food and dining related activities in Hvar.

  • Hvar Charming Abandoned Village Small Group Tour and Local Dinner: $180
  • Hvar Hidden Gems Tour with Lunch or Dinner: $187
  • Hvar Hidden Gems Small Group Half Day Tour with Lunch or Dinner: $202
  • Hvar Abandoned Village Tour with Local Dinner: $214
  • Private Hvar Wine Tasting Tour with Traditional Dinner: $234
  • Food Tour: Traditional Flavours and Food Sampling on Hvar: $262
  • The Best of Hvar in a Day with Wine tasting and Local Dinner: $273
  • Hvar Small Group Wine Tour and Authentic Dalmatian Dinner: $273

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Thiva (Thebes) 26
    Hvar 7.48

Tours and Activities in Hvar

Some specific costs of activities, tours, and entrance tickets for Hvar are as follows:

  • 1-Hour Battle Archery Game in Hvar Adventure Park: $22
  • 1-Hour Private Paintball Adventure in Park Hvar Jelsa: $23
  • Private Multi-Activity Experience in Adventure Park Hvar Jelsa: $25
  • Walking tour of Hvar with your local guide: $32
  • Pakleni Islands Self-Guided Kayaking Tour: $48
  • Private Half-Day Kayak Experience in Hvar and Pakleni Islands: $49
  • Half-day kayak tour from Hvar town: $65
  • Hvar Island Self-Guided E-Bike Tour: $65
  • Private Hvar Island E-Bike Tour: $68
  • Romantic Sunset Sailing Experience On A Comfort Yacht: $70
  • Experience Romantic Sunset Sailing on a modern 36ft (11m) sail yacht | Hvar: $71
  • Private Hvar Walking Tour: $71

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Thiva (Thebes) 18
    Hvar 9.18

Sample the Local Flavors in Hvar

Also in Hvar, these are the prices for nightlife and alcohol related activities from various tour providers:

  • Hvar Wine Tasting Experience: $118
  • Hvar Wine tasting small group experience: $131
  • Private Hvar Wine Tasting Tour : $142
  • Wine Tasting Tour: $157
  • Chocolate and Wine Tasting Small Group Tour from Hvar: $175


When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Thiva (Thebes) and Hvar, we can see that Thiva (Thebes) 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 Thiva (Thebes) would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Thiva (Thebes) 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 Thiva (Thebes) Expensive? and Is Hvar Expensive?.


Which is Bigger, Thiva (Thebes) or Hvar?

Thiva (Thebes) has a larger population, and is about 6 times larger than the population of Hvar. When comparing the sizes of Thiva (Thebes) 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 Thiva (Thebes) 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 Thiva (Thebes) or Hvar in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Thiva (Thebes) and Hvar. The summer months attract visitors to Thiva (Thebes) because of the city activities and 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.

Thiva (Thebes) is around the same temperature as Hvar in the summer. The daily temperature in Thiva (Thebes) averages around 27°C (81°F) in July, and Hvar fluctuates around 26°C (80°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Hvar this time of the year. In Thiva (Thebes), it's very sunny this time of the year. Thiva (Thebes) usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Hvar during summer. Thiva (Thebes) gets 357 hours of sunny skies, while Hvar receives 345 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Thiva (Thebes) usually receives less rain than Hvar. Thiva (Thebes) gets 6 mm (0.2 in) of rain, while Hvar receives 28 mm (1.1 in) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Thiva (Thebes) 27°C (81°F) 
    Hvar 26°C (80°F)

Should I visit Thiva (Thebes) or Hvar in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Thiva (Thebes) as well as Hvar. The city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene are the main draw to Thiva (Thebes) this time of year. Additionally, many travelers come to Hvar for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

In the autumn, Thiva (Thebes) is around the same temperature as Hvar. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Thiva (Thebes) in October average around 19°C (67°F), and Hvar averages at about 18°C (64°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Hvar. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Thiva (Thebes) this time of the year. In the autumn, Thiva (Thebes) often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Hvar. Thiva (Thebes) gets 206 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Hvar receives 200 hours of full sun.

Thiva (Thebes) usually gets less rain in October than Hvar. Thiva (Thebes) gets 48 mm (1.9 in) of rain, while Hvar receives 79 mm (3.1 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Thiva (Thebes) 19°C (67°F) 
    Hvar 18°C (64°F)

Should I visit Thiva (Thebes) or Hvar in the Winter?

Both Hvar and Thiva (Thebes) are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Thiva (Thebes) for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, many visitors come to Hvar in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

In January, Thiva (Thebes) is generally a little warmer than Hvar. Daily temperatures in Thiva (Thebes) average around 10°C (51°F), and Hvar fluctuates around 8°C (47°F).

Thiva (Thebes) usually receives more sunshine than Hvar during winter. Thiva (Thebes) gets 143 hours of sunny skies, while Hvar receives 128 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Thiva (Thebes) usually receives less rain than Hvar. Thiva (Thebes) gets 45 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while Hvar receives 83 mm (3.3 in) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Thiva (Thebes) 10°C (51°F) 
    Hvar 8°C (47°F)

Should I visit Thiva (Thebes) or Hvar in the Spring?

Both Hvar and Thiva (Thebes) during the spring are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Thiva (Thebes) in the spring for the activities around the city. Also, most visitors come to Hvar for the beaches and the natural beauty during these months.

Thiva (Thebes) is around the same temperature as Hvar in the spring. The daily temperature in Thiva (Thebes) averages around 16°C (60°F) in April, and Hvar fluctuates around 15°C (59°F).

In Hvar, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Thiva (Thebes). In the spring, Thiva (Thebes) often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Hvar. Thiva (Thebes) gets 226 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Hvar receives 212 hours of full sun.

Thiva (Thebes) usually gets less rain in April than Hvar. Thiva (Thebes) gets 25 mm (1 in) of rain, while Hvar receives 66 mm (2.6 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Thiva (Thebes) 16°C (60°F) 
    Hvar 15°C (59°F)

Typical Weather for Hvar and Thiva (Thebes)

Thiva (Thebes) Hvar
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 10°C (51°F) 45 mm (1.8 in) 8°C (47°F) 83 mm (3.3 in)
Feb 11°C (51°F) 48 mm (1.9 in) 9°C (48°F) 68 mm (2.7 in)
Mar 12°C (54°F) 44 mm (1.7 in) 11°C (52°F) 75 mm (3 in)
Apr 16°C (60°F) 25 mm (1 in) 15°C (59°F) 66 mm (2.6 in)
May 20°C (68°F) 14 mm (0.6 in) 20°C (67°F) 56 mm (2.2 in)
Jun 24°C (76°F) 6 mm (0.2 in) 23°C (74°F) 51 mm (2 in)
Jul 27°C (81°F) 6 mm (0.2 in) 26°C (80°F) 28 mm (1.1 in)
Aug 27°C (81°F) 8 mm (0.3 in) 26°C (79°F) 50 mm (2 in)
Sep 24°C (76°F) 10 mm (0.4 in) 22°C (72°F) 61 mm (2.4 in)
Oct 19°C (67°F) 48 mm (1.9 in) 18°C (64°F) 79 mm (3.1 in)
Nov 16°C (60°F) 51 mm (2 in) 13°C (56°F) 108 mm (4.3 in)
Dec 12°C (54°F) 66 mm (2.6 in) 10°C (49°F) 100 mm (3.9 in)