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

Should you visit Toulouse 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 Toulouse 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.

Toulouse

Toulouse is a historic, vibrant, and friendly city. It's a large city, so you'll find plenty of things to do around town. It's a beautiful place to visit, too. And you can't forget about the nightlife, food, and shopping.

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 beaches, hiking, and shopping.

Toulouse and Hvar: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Toulouse or Hvar?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Toulouse. Although Toulouse and Hvar are both popular with visitors, Toulouse has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Toulouse is more popular for its museums, food, historical sights, shopping, and big city activities, while Hvar is known for its nightlife, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, hiking, and impressive beauty. Hvar is more touristy than Toulouse and is popular for its wild parties, beautiful buildings, and world class cuisine. Toulouse is popular for its impressive old town, many museums, and delicious local cuisine. It is also home to Basilique Saint-Sernin.

How is Toulouse different from Hvar?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Toulouse 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 Toulouse. There is a long running history with countless landmarks and museums. Highlights include Basilique Saint-Sernin, Place du Capitole, Muséum de Toulouse, and Fondation Bemberg.

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 Toulouse or Hvar? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Toulouse is renowned for its local cuisine and restaurants. Also, Hvar is not as famous, but is still a good island to visit for its restaurants.

Many restaurants in Toulouse have been singled out for their culinary prowess. There are many unique regional recipes that make use of poultry, cold meats, and foie gras. Toulouse sausage, cassoulet, Poulet à la Toulousaine, and Foie gras d’oie are all popular local dishes.

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.

Is Toulouse or Hvar Better for Nightlife?

Hvar is a must-visit destination for its evening party scene. Also, Toulouse is not as popular, but is still a nice city for nightlife.

Hvar is a world class 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.

Toulouse has plenty to do after the sun goes down. You'll find a large number of students in town so the nightlife scene is active and fun. For the most lively atmosphere head to Carmes, Saint-Cyprien, or Place Saint-Pierre.

Is Toulouse or Hvar Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

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

Toulouse is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Toulouse or Hvar Better for Beaches?

Hvar is great for the beach. However, Toulouse 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.

Toulouse is not a beach destination.

Is Toulouse or Hvar Better for its Old Town?

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

Toulouse is an extremely popular place to visit the historic old town area. The old town is filled with terra-cota buildings and pedestrian walkways. The area flows out around the Capitole and is crossed by the Garonne.

Hvar does not have a historic old town.

Is Toulouse or Hvar Better for Hiking?

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

Toulouse is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Toulouse or Hvar?

Toulouse is notable for its shopping opportunities. Also, Hvar is not as famous, but is still a good island to visit for its shopping areas.

Toulouse is a popular shopping destination with plenty of stores. There are many great shopping districts around town including Place du Capitole, The Saint Georges district, and Rue Alsace Lorraine.

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 Toulouse or Hvar Better for Families?

Both Toulouse and Hvar are great to visit with kids.

You'll find plenty of family-friendly things to do in Toulouse. The city's known for its space industry so the La Cite de l’Espace (Space Museum) is a favorite attraction for kids and adults alike. You can also visit Aeroscopia, the airplane museum. La Halle de la machine is a truly unique and impressive playground. The city also has many other museums and outdoor spaces to explore.

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 Toulouse or Hvar Better for Couples?

Both Toulouse and Hvar are great destinations for a couple's getaway.

Toulouse is a great city if you're traveling as a couple. There are many beautiful parks, gardens, and walking paths. Make sure you take a stroll along the Canal du Midi and visit Jardin Japonais Pierre Baudis. This is also a great city for visiting a spa.

Hvar is a very popular place to visit for couples. 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 Toulouse or Hvar Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Hvar is a must-visit destination for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Toulouse 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.

Toulouse is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. It's not a major stop off for many backpackers in Europe so you won't find as many hostels as you do in other cities.

Is Toulouse or Hvar Better for Students?

Toulouse is a city with good options for students. However, Hvar is not popular with students.

Toulouse is a good city to visit for students. You'll find a diverse student population with many international students.

Hvar is not popular with students.

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

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

While Toulouse offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. There are a large number of bus routes that travel both locally and regionally.

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

Is Toulouse or Hvar a more walkable city?

Toulouse 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.

Toulouse is a very walkable city. Within the city center it is very walkable and easy to explore 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 Toulouse Worth Visiting? and Is Hvar Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Hvar or Toulouse?

How long in Toulouse or Hvar?

It's fun to spend time in either Toulouse or Hvar. In our opinion, Toulouse has more to see and do, so we recommend that you spend more time in Toulouse than Hvar. However, 2-4 days is a good amount of time to spend in either destination.

Families should spend more time in Toulouse than Hvar. Because of the many family-friendly attractions and fun things to do for kids in Toulouse, it's a great place to visit with the whole family.

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

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

Visitors enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the destination of Toulouse. Visiting the old town is also a must. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything.

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 Toulouse or Hvar?

Toulouse is a fun place to experience. Most people visit for the food. 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.

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 Toulouse or Hvar?

You'll find museums and nightlife around the relaxed destination of Toulouse. 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 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 Toulouse or Hvar?

The relaxed city of Toulouse 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.

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 Historical Tours in France, The Best 10-Day Tours in France, 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 Toulouse and Hvar, we can see that Toulouse 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 Toulouse would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Toulouse 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 Toulouse Expensive? and Is Hvar Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Toulouse or Hvar?

Toulouse has a larger population, and is about 120 times larger than the population of Hvar. When comparing the sizes of Toulouse 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 Toulouse 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 Toulouse or Hvar in the Summer?

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

In July, Toulouse is generally cooler than Hvar. Daily temperatures in Toulouse average around 22°C (72°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 Toulouse. In the summer, Toulouse often gets less sunshine than Hvar. Toulouse gets 275 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Hvar receives 345 hours of full sun.

Toulouse usually gets more rain in July than Hvar. Toulouse gets 41 mm (1.6 in) of rain, while Hvar receives 28 mm (1.1 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Toulouse or Hvar in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Toulouse and Hvar. The city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Toulouse this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Hvar for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

Toulouse is cooler than Hvar in the autumn. The daily temperature in Toulouse averages around 15°C (60°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. Toulouse usually receives less sunshine than Hvar during autumn. Toulouse gets 161 hours of sunny skies, while Hvar receives 200 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Toulouse usually receives less rain than Hvar. Toulouse 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 Toulouse or Hvar in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Toulouse as well as Hvar. Many travelers come to Toulouse 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 the winter, Toulouse is cooler than Hvar. Typically, the winter temperatures in Toulouse in January average around 6°C (44°F), and Hvar averages at about 8°C (47°F).

In the winter, Toulouse often gets less sunshine than Hvar. Toulouse gets 88 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Hvar receives 128 hours of full sun.

Toulouse usually gets less rain in January than Hvar. Toulouse gets 55 mm (2.2 in) of rain, while Hvar receives 83 mm (3.3 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Toulouse or Hvar in the Spring?

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

In April, Toulouse is generally cooler than Hvar. Daily temperatures in Toulouse average around 12°C (54°F), and Hvar fluctuates around 15°C (59°F).

It's quite sunny in Hvar. Toulouse usually receives less sunshine than Hvar during spring. Toulouse gets 178 hours of sunny skies, while Hvar receives 212 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Toulouse usually receives around the same amount of rain as Hvar. Toulouse gets 64 mm (2.5 in) of rain, while Hvar receives 66 mm (2.6 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Hvar and Toulouse