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

Should you visit Verona or Hvar?

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

Should I visit Verona 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.

Verona

Verona is a romantic, cultural, and beautiful city. 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 party-oriented, historic, and beautiful island. The beauty of this spot is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. Visitors also love the scuba diving and snorkeling, beaches, and hiking.

Verona and Hvar: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Verona or Hvar?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Hvar than Verona, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Hvar is better known for its nightlife, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, and hiking, while Verona is more popular for its museums and historical sights. Hvar is more touristy than Verona and is popular for its wild parties, beautiful buildings, and world class cuisine. Also, Hvar is famous for Hvar Fort. Verona is well known for its role as the setting of one of Shakespeare's most famous plays.

How is Verona different from Hvar?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Verona 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 Verona. While most people know Verona as the setting of Shakespeare's play "Romeo and Juliet", there are also many unrelated but still impressive sights around town. Of course you must check out the Casa di Giulietta (Juliet's House and Balcony), but also make sure you visit the fortress of Castelvecchio, Arena di Verona, and Basilica of San Zeno Maggiore.

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 Verona or Hvar? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Dining out at restaurants in both Verona and Hvar can be an enjoyable experience.

Verona has a huge number of terrific restaurants. Food is a source of pride for the locals in Verona, and you'll find excellent dishes in most eateries, even those catering specifically to tourists. There are many local recipes that are worth sampling while you're in the area including risotto with tastasal, potato gnocchi, and polenta.

Dining out in Hvar is an experience not to be missed. 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 Verona or Hvar Better for Nightlife?

Hvar is an unbeatable place for nightlife and partying. Also, Verona is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its evening party scene.

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.

There's a variety of activities in the evening in Verona. The nightlife scene caters to a mature crowd and there is a heavy focus on regional wine. There are many local bars and traditional osterie (inns) where you can sip local wine or hear live music.

Is Verona or Hvar Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Hvar is a popular place for its diving and snorkeling. However, Verona 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.

Verona is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Verona or Hvar Better for Beaches?

Hvar is a great island for the beache. However, Verona is not a beach destination.

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.

Verona is not a beach destination.

Is Verona or Hvar Better for its Old Town?

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

Verona is an extremely popular place to visit the historic old town area. At the heart of the city is the old town, which is filled with medieval and Renaissance style architecture. It's easy to explore this beautiful area on foot.

Hvar does not have a historic old town.

Is Verona or Hvar Better for Hiking?

Hvar is a popular place for hiking. However, Verona 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.

Verona is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Verona or Hvar?

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

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Verona. The most well known shopping street is Corso Santa Anastasia, which has many antique shops as well as jewelry stores and high end boutiques.

Many visitors go to Hvar to go 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 Verona or Hvar Better for Families?

Hvar is a great island for its kid-friendly activities. However, Verona is not known for its family-friendly activities.

Because of its large number of kid-friendly activities, Hvar is very family-friendly. 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.

Verona is not the most family-friendly destination. You can head to the top of the the Lamberti Tower and, of course, check out the Romeo and Juliet balcony. Wandering the streets and grabbing gelato is also fun for the whole family.

Is Verona or Hvar Better for Couples?

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

Verona is a great city if you're traveling as a couple. As the setting for Shakespeare's famed "Romeo and Juliet", this town is seeped in romantic history. In addition to checking out the classic balcony, couples can enjoy seeing an opera at Verona Arena or seeking out views of the beautiful city. Crossing the romantic Ponte Pietra is another must-do romantic activity in the area.

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 Verona or Hvar Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Hvar is an unbeatable place for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Verona is not as popular, but is still a nice city for backpackers.

With so many budget-friendly offerings, Hvar is extremely popular 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.

Verona is popular with backpackers and budget travelers. Backpackers rarely spend more than a day or two in town, but there are hostels in the area that offer cheap accommodation.

Is Verona or Hvar Better for Students?

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

Verona is a good city to visit for students. The city offers a more authentic Italian experience than some of the more popular tourist and study abroad destinations in Italy.

Hvar is not popular with students.

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

Verona and Hvar both offer notable public transit to get you around.

While Verona offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. ATV operates buses through the city.

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

Is Verona or Hvar a more walkable city?

Verona 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.

Verona is a very walkable city. It's a compact city that's easy to explore on foot. Many locals get around by walking or biking.

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 Verona Worth Visiting? and Is Hvar Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Hvar or Verona?

How long in Verona or Hvar?

It's fun to spend time in either Verona or Hvar. Generally, people tend to spend more time in Hvar due to the larger number of activities and things to do. Usually, 1-3 days is a good amount of time for Verona, and 2-4 days is enough time in Hvar.

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

Visitors enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the destination of Verona. 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.

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 Verona or Hvar?

Verona 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 Verona or Hvar?

You'll find museums and nightlife around the romantic destination of Verona. 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.

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 Verona or Hvar?

The beautiful city of Verona 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.

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the vibrant 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 10-Day Tours in Italy, The Best One Week (7-Day) 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 Verona and Hvar, we can see that Verona 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 Verona would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Verona 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 Verona Expensive? and Is Hvar Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Verona or Hvar?

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

Both Hvar and Verona during the summer are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Verona in the summer for the family-friendly experiences. Furthermore, most visitors come to Hvar for the beaches, snorkeling, the hiking, and the family-friendly experiences during these months.

Verona is cooler than Hvar in the summer. The daily temperature in Verona averages around 24°C (75°F) in July, and Hvar fluctuates around 26°C (80°F).

In Hvar, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Verona. In the summer, Verona often gets less sunshine than Hvar. Verona gets 286 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Hvar receives 345 hours of full sun.

Verona usually gets more rain in July than Hvar. Verona gets 62 mm (2.4 in) of rain, while Hvar receives 28 mm (1.1 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Verona or Hvar in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Verona and Hvar. Most visitors come to Verona for the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area during these months. Furthermore, the autumn months attract visitors to Hvar because of the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

In the autumn, Verona is cooler than Hvar. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Verona in October average around 14°C (57°F), and Hvar averages at about 18°C (64°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Hvar this time of the year. Verona usually receives less sunshine than Hvar during autumn. Verona gets 137 hours of sunny skies, while Hvar receives 200 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Verona usually receives around the same amount of rain as Hvar. Verona gets 82 mm (3.2 in) of rain, while Hvar receives 79 mm (3.1 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Verona or Hvar in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Verona as well as Hvar. The winter months attract visitors to Verona because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Additionally, the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Hvar this time of year.

The weather in Verona can be very cold. In January, Verona is generally much colder than Hvar. Daily temperatures in Verona average around 2°C (36°F), and Hvar fluctuates around 8°C (47°F).

In the winter, Verona often gets less sunshine than Hvar. Verona gets 98 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Hvar receives 128 hours of full sun.

Verona usually gets less rain in January than Hvar. Verona gets 55 mm (2.1 in) of rain, while Hvar receives 83 mm (3.3 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Verona or Hvar in the Spring?

Both Hvar and Verona are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. The natural beauty are the main draw to Verona this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Hvar for the beaches and the natural beauty.

Verona is cooler than Hvar in the spring. The daily temperature in Verona averages around 13°C (55°F) in April, and Hvar fluctuates around 15°C (59°F).

It's quite sunny in Hvar. Verona usually receives less sunshine than Hvar during spring. Verona gets 169 hours of sunny skies, while Hvar receives 212 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Verona usually receives around the same amount of rain as Hvar. Verona gets 69 mm (2.7 in) of rain, while Hvar receives 66 mm (2.6 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Hvar and Verona