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

Should you visit Venice or Hvar?

Which is cheaper to visit? Which is more expensive for vacation?

Which city is more affordable and which is best for your travel style? If you're trying to figure out where to go next, comparing the travel costs between Venice and Hvar can help you decide which place is right for you.

Venice

Venice is a historic, beautiful, and romantic city. You'll find world class beauty here as well. It also has a unique and quaint vibe that attracts lots of visitors. And you can't forget about the shopping, museums, and food.

Hvar

Hvar is a historic, beautiful, and vibrant island. With stunning beauty, it attracts visitors from all around. It's also popular because of the food, scuba diving and snorkeling, and beaches.

Venice and Hvar: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Venice or Hvar?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Venice. Although Venice and Hvar are both popular with visitors, Venice has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Venice is more popular for its museums, historical sights, shopping, impressive beauty, and quaint atmosphere, while Hvar is known for its food, nightlife, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, and hiking. Venice is popular for its many canals, famous gondolas, iconic architecture, romantic squares, and beautiful bridges. It is also home to St. Mark's Basilica. Hvar is popular for its wild parties, beautiful buildings, and world class cuisine.

How is Venice different from Hvar?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Venice is renowned for its sights and museums. Also, Hvar is not as famous, but is still a good island to visit for its museums and history.

The museums, monuments, and landmarks in Venice are among the most recognizable in the world. The many historic and famous landmarks in town include St. Mark's Basilica, St. Mark's Square, Doge's Palace, and the Rialto Bridge.

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 Venice or Hvar? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Hvar is great for its local flavors and cuisine. Also, Venice is not as popular, but is still a nice city 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.

Venice offers number of good local restaurants to choose from. For the best dining experience, you should try to avoid the touristy restaurants that serve the typical pizza and pasta. Instead, find a local eatery that specializes in the region's traditional flavors like fish and vegetables.

Is Venice or Hvar Better for Nightlife?

Hvar is a world-class destination for its evening party scene. However, Venice is not a good destination for nightlife.

People head to Hvar just to party. 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.

Most people don't head to Venice specifically for the nightlife scene, but you can find a few options. If you want to party, your best option is to head to the Lido area where you'll find night clubs and bars. A better alternative for enjoying your evening is to order a late night meal and a glass of wine at a local restaurant in Venice.

Is Venice or Hvar Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Hvar is very good for snorkeling and scuba diving. However, Venice is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

It's worth going snorkeling or scuba diving 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.

Venice is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Venice or Hvar Better for Beaches?

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

Hvar is a very popular place to visit for its beaches. 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.

Venice is not a beach destination.

Is Venice or Hvar Better for its Old Town?

Venice is renowned for its old town. However, Hvar does not have a historic old town.

The old town of Venice is one of the most recognized in the world. The city's historic area is unlike anywhere else in the world. The canals, colorful buildings, are world-renowned architecture, make this among the most recognized historic settings in the world.

Hvar does not have a historic old town.

Is Venice or Hvar Better for Hiking?

Hvar is very good for hiking. However, Venice is not a hiking destination.

Many people include a hike when visiting 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.

Venice is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Venice or Hvar?

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

The abundance of shops in Venice make it a world-class shopping destination. There are many unique items that people purchase in town. Some of the most popular include Murano glass, Burano lace, Venetian masks, and local fabrics.

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 Venice or Hvar Better for Families?

You'll find superb kid-friendly activities in either Venice or Hvar.

You'll find plenty of family-friendly things to do in Venice. Even for kids, visiting this city is all about soaking up the atmosphere and sense of place. It is unlike anywhere else in the world. The canals, historic buildings, gondolas, and plazas offer a special environment, even for kids who may be burned out from exploring cities. Attractions that appeal to kids include visiting the prisons at Doge's Palace, shopping for masks, and taking a ride on a gondola.

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 Venice or Hvar Better for Couples?

Venice is renowned for its romantic activities. Also, Hvar is not as famous, but is still a good island to visit for couples.

Venice is a great city for couples, as it has plenty to offer. With its many truly unique romantic experiences, this city makes for a truly memorable honeymoon or romantic getaway. Ride a gondola, get lost in the city, and enjoy pasta and music around town to make the experience unlike any other.

Hvar makes for a fun place to visit for 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.

Is Venice or Hvar Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Hvar is a world-class destination for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Venice is not as popular, but is still a nice city 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 Venice. Many backpackers stay just out of town to save a bit of money, but, even though it's not cheap, this city is well-established on the backpacker trail.

Is Venice or Hvar Better for Students?

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

Venice is a very popular city for students. Because of its well-established reputation, this city attracts many international students for both semester and full length programs. There are many programs to choose between, and many students focus on the region's art, architecture, history, and language.

Hvar is not popular with students.

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

Venice is renowned 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.

Venice has a great public transit system. There is a comprehensive boat and ferry system that includes aporettos, alilagunas, private water taxis, gondolas, and traghettos.

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

Is Venice or Hvar a more walkable city?

Venice is renowned 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.

It is easy to get around Venice on foot. Because it is small, it's easy to walk to all of the major tourist attractions.

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 Venice Worth Visiting? and Is Hvar Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Hvar or Venice?

How long in Venice or Hvar?

It's fun to spend time in either Venice or Hvar. Generally, people tend to spend more time in Venice due to the larger number of activities and things to do. Usually, 2-7 days is a good amount of time for Venice, and 2-4 days is enough time in Hvar.

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

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

Visitors enjoy the museums and food when visiting the destination of Venice. 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.

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 Venice or Hvar?

Venice 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.

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 Venice or Hvar?

Visitors enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the cultural destination of Venice. This city offers something for everyone. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. Plenty of people spend five days in the area when traveling. Five days is often enough time to do most activities.

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 Venice or Hvar?

Visitors enjoy the museums and food when visiting the magical city of Venice. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. Many people spend one week here. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. Because of this, one week is usually enough time for a trip here.

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the beautiful 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 Sightseeing Tours in Italy, The Best Vineyard & Wine Tours in Italy, 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 Venice and Hvar, we can see that Venice 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 Venice would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Venice 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 Venice Expensive? and Is Hvar Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Venice or Hvar?

Venice has a larger population, and is about 70 times larger than the population of Hvar. When comparing the sizes of Venice 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 Venice 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 Venice or Hvar in the Summer?

Both Hvar and Venice during the summer are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Venice for the family-friendly experiences. Also, many visitors come to Hvar in the summer for the beaches, snorkeling, the hiking, and the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Venice is generally cooler than Hvar. Daily temperatures in Venice average around 23°C (73°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 Venice. In the summer, Venice often gets less sunshine than Hvar. Venice gets 287 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Hvar receives 345 hours of full sun.

Venice usually gets more rain in July than Hvar. Venice gets 61 mm (2.4 in) of rain, while Hvar receives 28 mm (1.1 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Venice or Hvar in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Venice and Hvar. Many visitors come to Venice in the autumn for the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area. Also, most visitors come to Hvar for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area during these months.

Venice is cooler than Hvar in the autumn. The daily temperature in Venice averages around 14°C (57°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. Venice usually receives less sunshine than Hvar during autumn. Venice gets 134 hours of sunny skies, while Hvar receives 200 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Venice usually receives less rain than Hvar. Venice gets 67 mm (2.7 in) of rain, while Hvar receives 79 mm (3.1 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Venice or Hvar in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Venice as well as Hvar. Most visitors come to Venice for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months. Also, the winter months attract visitors to Hvar because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Venice can be very cold during winter. In the winter, Venice is much colder than Hvar. Typically, the winter temperatures in Venice in January average around 3°C (37°F), and Hvar averages at about 8°C (47°F).

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

Venice usually gets less rain in January than Hvar. Venice gets 58 mm (2.3 in) of rain, while Hvar receives 83 mm (3.3 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Venice or Hvar in the Spring?

Both Hvar and Venice are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. The spring months attract visitors to Venice because of the natural beauty. Also, the beaches and the natural beauty are the main draw to Hvar this time of year.

In April, Venice is generally cooler than Hvar. Daily temperatures in Venice average around 13°C (55°F), and Hvar fluctuates around 15°C (59°F).

It's quite sunny in Hvar. Venice usually receives less sunshine than Hvar during spring. Venice gets 154 hours of sunny skies, while Hvar receives 212 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Venice usually receives less rain than Hvar. Venice gets 60 mm (2.4 in) of rain, while Hvar receives 66 mm (2.6 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Hvar and Venice