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

Should you visit Ventimiglia or Hvar?

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

Should I visit Ventimiglia or Hvar? This is a common question asked by many travelers. By figuring out which city has activities that align with your interests along with knowing which is more affordable, you'll understand where you can get more bang for your buck. So, let's dive into the details and the data, which all comes from actual travelers.

Ventimiglia

Ventimiglia is a scenic, traditional, and understated seaside town. It also offers plenty of small town charm and also has plenty of sights and activities. You'll find world class beauty here as well. And you can't forget about the beaches, shopping, and food.

Hvar

Hvar is a party-oriented, historic, and beautiful island. With stunning beauty, it attracts visitors from all around. Other popular activities here include food, scuba diving and snorkeling, and beaches.

Ventimiglia and Hvar: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Ventimiglia or Hvar?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Hvar. Although Ventimiglia and Hvar are both popular with visitors, Hvar has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Hvar is more popular for its museums, nightlife, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, and hiking, while Ventimiglia is known for its historical sights, shopping, small town charm, and impressive beauty. Hvar is more touristy than Ventimiglia and is known for its wild parties, beautiful buildings, and world class cuisine. It is also home to Hvar Fort. Ventimiglia is popular for its weekly market, colorful old town, and nice beaches.

How is Ventimiglia different from Hvar?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Hvar is a popular place for its museums and landmarks. However, Ventimiglia does not have museums and landmarks.

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.

Ventimiglia does not have museums and landmarks.

Is the Food Better in Ventimiglia or Hvar? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Foodies will find both Ventimiglia and Hvar both to be excellent destinations.

Dining out in Ventimiglia is an experience not to be missed. Italian classics are abundant including tiramisus, Italian pizzas, risotto alla milanese, and traditional lasagna. If you're in town on a Friday you should visit the local market which has stalls selling local produce and foods.

The food selection at local restaurants is excellent in 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.

Is Ventimiglia or Hvar Better for Nightlife?

Hvar is a world-class destination for its evening party scene. However, Ventimiglia is a seaside town with minimal options 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.

The nightlife scene is quiet in Ventimiglia Most people don't head to town for the nightlife, but there are some bars where you can grab a drink or sip a glass of wine.

Is Ventimiglia or Hvar Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Hvar is a popular place for snorkeling and scuba diving. However, Ventimiglia is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Hvar has a few good snorkeling spots. 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.

Ventimiglia is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Ventimiglia or Hvar Better for Beaches?

Hvar is a great destination for the beach. Also, Ventimiglia is still popular, but not quite as popular for its beaches.

Hvar is considered a top beach destination. 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.

Many people head to Ventimiglia to enjoy the beach. The lungomare is a promenade along the sea that allows visitors to wander and take in waterfront views. Most of the beaches are free to access and have been influenced by the coastal erosion efforts which have led to a series of scalloped bays. If you reach the end of the lungomare you'll find a natural area where the Roya and Nervia rivers meet the ocean. This is also a popular spot for breeding birds.

Is Ventimiglia or Hvar Better for its Old Town?

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

Ventimiglia is an extremely popular place to visit the historic old town area. The old town is filled with cobblestone streets and charming pastel buildings. There are also a number of historic buildings and monuments that give the town a special atmosphere.

Hvar does not have a historic old town.

Is Ventimiglia or Hvar Better for Hiking?

Hvar is a popular place for its hiking experiences. However, Ventimiglia is not a hiking destination.

Hvar is a good destination for hiking. 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.

Ventimiglia is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Ventimiglia or Hvar?

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

Ventimiglia is a popular shopping destination with plenty of stores. Most people head in town on Friday for the market, which has stalls selling crafts and local products.

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 Ventimiglia or Hvar Better for Families?

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

Hvar is known to be 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.

Ventimiglia offers lots of family activities. The charming town is a great place for kids to explore. There is a botanical garden and hiking trails that the whole family can enjoy as well as quiet beaches where they can play. The Italian food is also perfect for young palates.

Is Ventimiglia or Hvar Better for Couples?

With fun activities for couples, both Ventimiglia and Hvar make for a excellent place to visit.

Couples visit Ventimiglia frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. This quintessential Italian town offers a romantic setting with cobblestone streets and pastel buildings. There are many culinary delights and romantic settings that are perfect for couples. The hiking trails and botanical gardens are also fun places to explore.

Hvar is a great seaside town if you're traveling as 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 Ventimiglia or Hvar Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Hvar is a world-class destination for backpackers. However, Ventimiglia is not a backpacker-friendly destination.

Hvar is a very popular island to visit for backpackers. 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.

Ventimiglia is not a backpacker-friendly destination.

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

You'll find somewhat comparable public transit options in both Ventimiglia and Hvar.

You'll find some public transit in Ventimiglia, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. There are trains and buses to town. Once you're in town it's easy to explore on foot.

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 Ventimiglia or Hvar a more walkable city?

Ventimiglia 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.

Ventimiglia is a very walkable seaside town. It's small size and charming atmosphere make it a great town to explore on foot.

Hvar is a somewhat walkable seaside town. 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 Ventimiglia Worth Visiting? and Is Hvar Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Hvar or Ventimiglia?

How long in Ventimiglia or Hvar?

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

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

Ventimiglia is a small town where visitors enjoy the shopping and food. Visiting the old town is also a must. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One day is usually enough time to experience most activities.

Visitors enjoy the scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping when visiting the energetic island of Hvar. It's also a great beach destination, too. Most people visit for the nightlife. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

A weekend in Ventimiglia or Hvar?

Ventimiglia 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.

Visitors enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the historic destination of Hvar. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. This island offers something for everyone. Plenty of people spend a weekend in the area when traveling. If you enjoy all that's offered here, then a weekend is just the right amount of time to spend here.

Five days in Ventimiglia or Hvar?

Ventimiglia is a small town, so you can explore the area with less time. This seaside town 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.

The party-oriented island of Hvar offers museums and nightlife. You'll find plenty of activities on the beach. Five days may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel.

A week in Ventimiglia or Hvar?

Because Ventimiglia is a small town, it's easy to explore in a short amount of time. 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.

Many people enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting Hvar. Anyone can find something fun to do here. Most people come for the beaches. Most people visit for the nightlife. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Food and Culinary Tours in Italy, The Best Romantic Tours for Couples 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 Ventimiglia and Hvar, we can see that Ventimiglia 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 Ventimiglia would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Ventimiglia 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 Ventimiglia Expensive? and Is Hvar Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Ventimiglia or Hvar?

Ventimiglia has a larger population, and is about 7 times larger than the population of Hvar. When comparing the sizes of Ventimiglia 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 Ventimiglia 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 Ventimiglia or Hvar in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Ventimiglia and Hvar. Many visitors come to Ventimiglia in the summer for the beaches, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences. Furthermore, most visitors come to Hvar for the beaches, snorkeling, the hiking, and the family-friendly experiences during these months.

In July, Ventimiglia is generally cooler than Hvar. Daily temperatures in Ventimiglia average around 23°C (73°F), and Hvar fluctuates around 26°C (80°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Hvar this time of the year. In Ventimiglia, it's very sunny this time of the year. Ventimiglia usually receives less sunshine than Hvar during summer. Ventimiglia gets 295 hours of sunny skies, while Hvar receives 345 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Ventimiglia usually receives less rain than Hvar. Ventimiglia gets 16 mm (0.6 in) of rain, while Hvar receives 28 mm (1.1 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Ventimiglia or Hvar in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Ventimiglia as well as Hvar. Most visitors come to Ventimiglia for the shopping scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area during these months. Additionally, the autumn months attract visitors to Hvar because of the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

Ventimiglia is around the same temperature as Hvar in the autumn. The daily temperature in Ventimiglia averages around 17°C (63°F) in October, and Hvar fluctuates around 18°C (64°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Hvar. In the autumn, Ventimiglia often gets less sunshine than Hvar. Ventimiglia gets 183 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Hvar receives 200 hours of full sun.

Ventimiglia receives a lot of rain in the autumn. Ventimiglia usually gets more rain in October than Hvar. Ventimiglia gets 108 mm (4.3 in) of rain, while Hvar receives 79 mm (3.1 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Ventimiglia or Hvar in the Winter?

Both Hvar and Ventimiglia are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. The winter months attract visitors to Ventimiglia because of the shopping scene and the cuisine. Also, the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Hvar this time of year.

In the winter, Ventimiglia is around the same temperature as Hvar. Typically, the winter temperatures in Ventimiglia in January average around 9°C (48°F), and Hvar averages at about 8°C (47°F).

Ventimiglia usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Hvar during winter. Ventimiglia gets 127 hours of sunny skies, while Hvar receives 128 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Ventimiglia usually receives around the same amount of rain as Hvar. Ventimiglia gets 83 mm (3.3 in) of rain, while Hvar receives 83 mm (3.3 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Ventimiglia or Hvar in the Spring?

Both Hvar and Ventimiglia during the spring are popular places to visit. The beaches, the small town charm, and the natural beauty are the main draw to Ventimiglia this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Hvar for the beaches and the natural beauty.

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

In Hvar, it's very sunny this time of the year. In the spring, Ventimiglia often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Hvar. Ventimiglia gets 198 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Hvar receives 212 hours of full sun.

Ventimiglia usually gets around the same amount of rain in April as Hvar. Ventimiglia gets 62 mm (2.4 in) of rain, while Hvar receives 66 mm (2.6 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Hvar and Ventimiglia