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

Should you visit Urbino 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 Urbino 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.

Urbino

Urbino is a undiscovered, authentic, and laid back town. 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 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 museums, nightlife, and food.

Urbino and Hvar: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Scenic old town
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for students
  • Impressive beauty
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for nightlife
  • Less family-friendly
  • 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 Urbino or Hvar?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Hvar. Although Urbino and Hvar are both popular with visitors, Hvar has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Hvar is more popular for its nightlife, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, and hiking, while Urbino is known for its historical sights. Hvar is more touristy than Urbino and is popular for its wild parties, beautiful buildings, and world class cuisine. It is also home to Hvar Fort. Urbino is popular for its Renaissance walls, historic center, and authentic atmosphere.

How is Urbino different from Hvar?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Urbino
Hvar

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

If you're looking for an educational opportunity, there are a decent number of museums and historical sights around Urbino. At the heart of the city are its historical sights. The cathedral is worth a visit, as is The Ducal Palace, but for most visitors, simply soaking up the town's atmosphere is the best experience.

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 Urbino or Hvar? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Urbino
Hvar

Picking the best cuisine and restaurants between Urbino and Hvar can be difficult as they are each great in their own way.

Urbino has a number of nationally recognized food spots and restaurants. The city's history has influenced its cuisine. Traditional foods include cornbread, truffles, and meat sausage. While these options aren't as common today, you can still find them if you seek them out.

With its innovative style combined with traditional elements, Hvar makes for a great culinary experience. 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 Urbino or Hvar Better for Nightlife?

Urbino
Hvar

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

There's a variety of activities in the evening in Urbino. Because of the large student population, there are usually some fun activities going on at night. You'll find some good bars around town that are fun to hang out at.

Is Urbino or Hvar Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Urbino
Hvar

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

Urbino is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.


Is Urbino or Hvar Better for Beaches?

Urbino
Hvar

Hvar is great for the beach. However, Urbino 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.

Urbino is not a beach destination.

Is Urbino or Hvar Better for its Old Town?

Urbino
Hvar

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

Many people head to Urbino to see the old town. The historic center feels a bit undiscovered by Italian standards. There are stone houses and the town is built on a steep hill, giving it a beautiful setting.

Hvar does not have a historic old town.

Is Urbino or Hvar Better for Hiking?

Urbino
Hvar

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

Urbino is not a hiking destination.


Is the Shopping Better in Urbino or Hvar?

Urbino
Hvar

If you're looking to go shopping, Urbino and Hvar both offer plenty of good spots.

Urbino has a variety of shopping areas worth visiting. You'll find galleries, book shops, and jewelry stores around town that are fun to pop into.

Hvar is a great destination for shopping. 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 Urbino or Hvar Better for Families?

Urbino
Hvar

Hvar is great for its kid-friendly activities. However, Urbino is not a good destination 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.

Urbino is not the most family-friendly destination. The city is filled with history and architecture, which may be lost on the kids. There are the classic Italian restaurants which is a favorite among kids and adults alike.

Is Urbino or Hvar Better for Couples?

Urbino
Hvar

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

Urbino is a great town if you're traveling as a couple. This walled city is fun to explore and can make for a great romantic stop. The city is walled and has many historical buildings which couples will enjoy learning about together.

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 Urbino or Hvar Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Urbino
Hvar

Hvar is an amazing island to visit for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Urbino 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.

Urbino is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. It's not well known by backpackers and there are a very limited number of hostels in the area.

Is Urbino or Hvar Better for Students?

Urbino
Hvar

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

Students come from all over to stay in Urbino. The student population is a large part of this small city. University students are usually happy and enjoy many activities and outings into the surrounding area.

Hvar is not popular with students.

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

Urbino
Hvar

Hvar is a island with good options for times when you don't have a car. However, Urbino is not a good destination for its public transit.

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.

Public transit is generally limited in Urbino. The town is accessible by bus but not by train.


Is Urbino or Hvar a more walkable city?

Urbino
Hvar

Urbino and Hvar are good when it comes to walkability.

Urbino is a somewhat walkable town. Many parts of the city are easy to explore on foot.

Hvar is somewhat walkable. 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 Urbino Worth Visiting? and Is Hvar Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Hvar or Urbino?

How long in Urbino or Hvar?

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

Families should spend more time in Hvar than Urbino. 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 Urbino. 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 Urbino 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 Urbino or Hvar? Ideal Length of Stay
    Urbino 1-2 
    Hvar 2-4

One day in Urbino or Hvar?

Visitors enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the destination of Urbino. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One day is usually enough time to experience most activities.

Many travelers enjoy the scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping when visiting the destination of Hvar. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

A weekend in Urbino or Hvar?

Urbino 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. Don't miss the nightlife, as that's what most people do. With all of its activities, you can easily fill a weekend here. Your budget might influence how long you stay.


Five days in Urbino or Hvar?

You'll find museums and nightlife around the undiscovered destination of Urbino. This town 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. Don't miss the nightlife, as that's what most people do. Most people come for the beaches. Five days may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

A week in Urbino or Hvar?

The historic town of Urbino 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 nightlife and food when visiting the party-oriented destination of Hvar. This island offers a variety of activities to choose from. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.


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


Which place is cheaper, Hvar or Urbino?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Urbino is €118, 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 Urbino and Hvar in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Urbino 53
    Hvar 38
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Urbino 106
    Hvar 76
Compare Hotels in Urbino and Hvar

Looking for a hotel in Urbino 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 Urbino


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: Urbino Hotel Prices and Hvar Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Urbino 44
    Hvar 47

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Urbino

Also for Urbino, here are a few examples of actual transportation services:

  • Private Transfer from Borgo Maggiore to Rimini (RMI) Airport: $108

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 Urbino or Hvar?

Prices for flights to both Hvar and Urbino 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
    Urbino 39
    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.
    Urbino 15
    Hvar 7.48

Tours and Activities in Urbino

Also, here are some specific examples of entertainment, tickets, and activities for Urbino.

  • San Marino: A Self Guided Audio Tour: $6.99
  • Entrance Ticket - Titanus Museum: Multimedia Experience: $8.68
  • San Marino Scavenger Hunt and Sightseeing Tour: $8.97
  • Private Guided Tour with Aperitif in Winebar in San Marino: $92
  • Guided group tour of Ducal Palace and National Gallery: $94
  • E-BIKE Tour San Marino for couples: $114
  • Private tour with Welcome KIT in San Marino: $136
  • 2-Hour Private Walking Tour with certified guide: $139
  • Private Walking Tour with Ducal Palace Ticket: $150
  • San Marino’s Starlit Stroll: A Christmas Walking Tour: $153
  • Private Tour of San Marino: UNESCO World Heritage Site: $172
  • Guided Tour of San Marino at Sunset with aperitif included: $184

Tours and Activities in Hvar

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

  • BLUE CAVE & 5 islands tour from Hvar: $98
  • 1-Hour Battle Archery Game in Hvar Adventure Park: $22
  • 1-Hour Private Paintball Adventure in Park Hvar Jelsa: $23
  • 3-Hour Lavender Tour from Hvar: $150
  • Adventurous Blue and Green Cave group tour: $86
  • Back to the Roots - Ancient Island Interactive Experience: $141
  • Beach bar Laganini and Hula Hula half-day Private Boat Tour: $918
  • Blue & Green cave tour with yacht from town Hvar: $229
  • Blue Cave & Vis Island speedboat tour from Hvar: $109
  • Blue Cave and Pakleni Islands group Tour from Hvar: $107
  • Blue cave group tour with swimming and snorkelling from Hvar: $76
  • Blue cave tour with speed boat from town Hvar: $196

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Urbino 14
    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 comparing the travel costs between Urbino and Hvar, we can see that Urbino 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 Urbino Expensive? and Is Hvar Expensive?.


Which is Bigger, Urbino or Hvar?

Urbino has a larger population, and is about 4 times larger than the population of Hvar. When comparing the sizes of Urbino 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 Urbino 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 Urbino or Hvar in the Summer?

Both Hvar and Urbino during the summer are popular places to visit. The summer months attract visitors to Urbino because of 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, Urbino is generally cooler than Hvar. Daily temperatures in Urbino average around 23°C (73°F), and Hvar fluctuates around 26°C (80°F).

Urbino usually gets more rain in July than Hvar. Urbino gets 75 mm (3 in) of rain, while Hvar receives 28 mm (1.1 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Urbino 23°C (73°F) 
    Hvar 26°C (80°F)

Should I visit Urbino or Hvar in the Autumn?

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

Urbino is cooler than Hvar in the autumn. The daily temperature in Urbino averages around 15°C (59°F) in October, and Hvar fluctuates around 18°C (64°F).

In October, Urbino usually receives around the same amount of rain as Hvar. Urbino gets 77 mm (3 in) of rain, while Hvar receives 79 mm (3.1 in) of rain each month for the autumn.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Urbino 15°C (59°F) 
    Hvar 18°C (64°F)

Should I visit Urbino or Hvar in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Urbino as well as Hvar. Many travelers come to Urbino 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.

Be prepared for some very cold days in Urbino. In the winter, Urbino is much colder than Hvar. Typically, the winter temperatures in Urbino in January average around 3°C (37°F), and Hvar averages at about 8°C (47°F).

Urbino usually gets less rain in January than Hvar. Urbino gets 34 mm (1.3 in) of rain, while Hvar receives 83 mm (3.3 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Urbino 3°C (37°F) 
    Hvar 8°C (47°F)

Should I visit Urbino or Hvar in the Spring?

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

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

In April, Urbino usually receives less rain than Hvar. Urbino gets 53 mm (2.1 in) of rain, while Hvar receives 66 mm (2.6 in) of rain each month for the spring.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Urbino 12°C (54°F) 
    Hvar 15°C (59°F)

Typical Weather for Hvar and Urbino

Urbino Hvar
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 3°C (37°F) 34 mm (1.3 in) 8°C (47°F) 83 mm (3.3 in)
Feb 5°C (42°F) 48 mm (1.9 in) 9°C (48°F) 68 mm (2.7 in)
Mar 9°C (49°F) 77 mm (3 in) 11°C (52°F) 75 mm (3 in)
Apr 12°C (54°F) 53 mm (2.1 in) 15°C (59°F) 66 mm (2.6 in)
May 16°C (61°F) 50 mm (2 in) 20°C (67°F) 56 mm (2.2 in)
Jun 20°C (68°F) 51 mm (2 in) 23°C (74°F) 51 mm (2 in)
Jul 23°C (73°F) 75 mm (3 in) 26°C (80°F) 28 mm (1.1 in)
Aug 22°C (71°F) 67 mm (2.6 in) 26°C (79°F) 50 mm (2 in)
Sep 19°C (67°F) 68 mm (2.7 in) 22°C (72°F) 61 mm (2.4 in)
Oct 15°C (59°F) 77 mm (3 in) 18°C (64°F) 79 mm (3.1 in)
Nov 9°C (49°F) 73 mm (2.9 in) 13°C (56°F) 108 mm (4.3 in)
Dec 4°C (39°F) 67 mm (2.6 in) 10°C (49°F) 100 mm (3.9 in)