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

Should you visit Trieste 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 Trieste 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.

Trieste

Trieste is a diverse, cultural, and historic city. It's a beautiful place to visit, too. And you can't forget about the nightlife, 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 scuba diving and snorkeling, beaches, and hiking.

Trieste and Hvar: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Trieste or Hvar?

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

How is Trieste different from Hvar?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

You'll find a number of good museums and attractions in both Hvar and Trieste.

If you're looking for an educational opportunity, there are a decent number of museums and historical sights around Trieste. Because Trieste was part of Austria for such a long stretch of time, you'll find that it looks different from many Italian cities. This is also evident in the different architectural and historic monuments around town. Major landmarks and sights include Piazza dell'Unità d'Italia, which is the largest square in the old part of the city, Miramare Castle, San Giusto Castle, Museum Riseria di San Sabba, and the Cathedral of San Giusto.

Hvar is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. 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 Trieste or Hvar? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Hvar is a very popular place for its restaurants. Also, Trieste is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its restaurant scene.

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.

Trieste offers number of good local restaurants to choose from. It's hard to pinpoint exactly how to categorize the local cuisine. It's been influenced by the city's Austro-Hungarian past and you'll find Austrian, Slovenian, and even Croatian flavors. The food scene is often overlooked for more famous Italian cities, but that doesn't mean there's not a lot to enjoy. Make sure you try jota (a bean, potato, and sauerkraut stew), calandraca (a salted meat stew), and gulasch alla triestina (a local twist on goulash. The city is also a coffee capital in Italy.

Is Trieste or Hvar Better for Nightlife?

Hvar is an unbeatable place for its evening party scene. Also, Trieste is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for nightlife.

The nightlife in Hvar is well established with world renowned clubs and venues. 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.

Trieste has an active nightlife scene for those who seek it out. While it's not known as a party destination, there is a laid-back nightlife scene that usually involves a late night enjoying drinks at a local bar with friends. Many establishments blur the café and bar concepts, but you'll find a number of lively bars west of Piazza Unità in the trendy Cavana neighborhood. There always seems to be something new in the area worth checking out.

Is Trieste or Hvar Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

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

Trieste is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Trieste or Hvar Better for Beaches?

Hvar is a very popular place for the beach. Also, Trieste is not quite as popular, but is fairly good 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.

Trieste offers a nice beach destination. The beaches tend to be pebbly, but they are a nice way to experience the sea. Locals still refer to it as "bathing" in the sea, a throwback to years past. The most common beach to visit is Ausonia, which is at the bottom of the Rive past the port of Sacchetta. Nearby are La Lanterna, also called Pedocin. This area still separates men and women in the bathing areas.

Is Trieste or Hvar Better for its Old Town?

Trieste is a city with good options for its old town. However, Hvar does not have a historic old town.

Many people head to Trieste to see the old town. The old town highlights the diversity of cultures and influences from the city's past.

Hvar does not have a historic old town.

Is Trieste or Hvar Better for Hiking?

Hvar is a island with good options for its hiking trails. However, Trieste 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.

Trieste is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Trieste or Hvar?

Hvar is a island with good options for its shopping areas. However, Trieste 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.

Trieste is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Trieste or Hvar Better for Families?

Both Trieste and Hvar are great to visit with kids.

You'll find plenty of family-friendly things to do in Trieste. The caves, adventure parks, and interactive museums all make for a fun family vacation. Make sure you check out Grotta Gigante, which will impress kids and adults alike. The Museum of Natural History has a collection of fossils that any dinosaur lover will appreciate, and Trieste Adventure Park is filled with ropes courses and ziplines. Finally, a visit to Miramare Castle will spark every child's imagination.

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 Trieste or Hvar Better for Couples?

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

Trieste makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. Visit the castles, cathedrals, and historic monuments, experience the atmosphere of the city's historic center, people watch in one of the grand piazzas, and watch the city light up at night. There are so many romantic sides to this cultural Italian city.

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.

Is Trieste or Hvar Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Hvar is an unbeatable place for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Trieste is not quite as popular, but is fairly good 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.

Plenty of backpackers visit Trieste. It's often overlooked for more popular Italian city's but there is still a lot that this under-rated city has to offer. You'll also find hostels for every budget and a youthful energy that will bring the city to life.

Is Trieste or Hvar Better for Students?

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

Students come from all over to stay in Trieste. Italy attracts students from around the globe and this city is no exception. The city's diverse population and unique cultural opportunities make it a great place to study abroad or immerse yourself in university life.

Hvar is not popular with students.

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

Trieste is notable for its public transit. Also, Hvar is not as famous, but is still a good island to visit for times when you don't have a car.

Public transit in Trieste can get you to some places easily. There are buses and trams to help you get around town.

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

Is Trieste or Hvar a more walkable city?

Trieste 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.

Trieste is a very walkable city. It's a hilly city, but it's also very walkable.

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 Trieste Worth Visiting? and Is Hvar Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Hvar or Trieste?

How long in Trieste or Hvar?

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

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

Visitors enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting the destination of Trieste. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything.

In Hvar, you'll find shopping and museums. You'll find plenty of activities on the beach. One reason most visitors come is for the nightlife. This island offers something for everyone. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

A weekend in Trieste or Hvar?

Trieste 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.

In Hvar, you'll find museums and nightlife. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend here is typical. Most people come for the beaches. One reason most visitors come is for the nightlife. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Hvar has to offer.

Five days in Trieste or Hvar?

You'll find food and museums around the diverse destination of Trieste. This city offers something for everyone. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

Hvar is a great place to explore. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. Five days is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

A week in Trieste or Hvar?

The energetic city of Trieste offers museums and nightlife. 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.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Hvar. Many people enjoy the food and scuba diving and snorkeling when visiting Hvar. One reason most visitors come is for the nightlife. People usually spend lots of time at the beach. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Tours for Seniors to Italy, The Best Contiki Tours to Italy, The Best One Week (7-Day) Tours in Croatia, and The Best 2-Week Tours in Croatia.

When comparing the travel costs between Trieste and Hvar, we can see that Hvar is more expensive. However, the two cities are actually relatively comparable in price, as the difference is somewhat minimal. Generally, this means that you could travel with generally the same travel style and level of luxury in each place. Since both cities are in Europe, it's no surprise that their costs are relatively close, as many destinations here have somewhat similar travel prices overall.

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

Which is Bigger, Trieste or Hvar?

Trieste has a larger population, and is about 60 times larger than the population of Hvar. When comparing the sizes of Trieste 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 Trieste 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 Trieste or Hvar in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Trieste as well as Hvar. The summer months attract visitors to Trieste because of the beaches 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, Trieste is generally around the same temperature as Hvar. Daily temperatures in Trieste average around 24°C (75°F), and Hvar fluctuates around 26°C (80°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Hvar. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Trieste this time of the year. In the summer, Trieste often gets less sunshine than Hvar. Trieste gets 288 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Hvar receives 345 hours of full sun.

Trieste usually gets more rain in July than Hvar. Trieste 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 Trieste or Hvar in the Autumn?

Both Hvar and Trieste are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. The natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Trieste this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Hvar for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

Trieste is cooler than Hvar in the autumn. The daily temperature in Trieste averages around 16°C (60°F) in October, and Hvar fluctuates around 18°C (64°F).

It's quite sunny in Hvar. Trieste usually receives less sunshine than Hvar during autumn. Trieste gets 167 hours of sunny skies, while Hvar receives 200 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Trieste usually receives more rain than Hvar. Trieste gets 87 mm (3.4 in) of rain, while Hvar receives 79 mm (3.1 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Trieste or Hvar in the Winter?

Both Hvar and Trieste during the winter are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Trieste for the museums and the cuisine. Furthermore, many visitors come to Hvar in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

In the winter, Trieste is much colder than Hvar. Typically, the winter temperatures in Trieste in January average around 5°C (41°F), and Hvar averages at about 8°C (47°F).

In the winter, Trieste often gets less sunshine than Hvar. Trieste gets 96 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Hvar receives 128 hours of full sun.

Trieste usually gets less rain in January than Hvar. Trieste gets 71 mm (2.8 in) of rain, while Hvar receives 83 mm (3.3 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Trieste or Hvar in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Trieste and Hvar. Many visitors come to Trieste in the spring for the beaches and the natural beauty. Furthermore, most visitors come to Hvar for the beaches and the natural beauty during these months.

In April, Trieste is generally cooler than Hvar. Daily temperatures in Trieste average around 13°C (56°F), and Hvar fluctuates around 15°C (59°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Hvar this time of the year. Trieste usually receives less sunshine than Hvar during spring. Trieste gets 177 hours of sunny skies, while Hvar receives 212 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Trieste usually receives more rain than Hvar. Trieste gets 87 mm (3.4 in) of rain, while Hvar receives 66 mm (2.6 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Hvar and Trieste