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

Should you visit Volterra or Hvar?

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

Should I visit Volterra 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.

Volterra

Volterra is a historic, charming, and medieval town. This is a great small town that is just waiting to be explored. The beauty of this spot is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. And you can't forget about the shopping, museums, and food.

Hvar

Hvar is a party-oriented, historic, and beautiful island. This is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. It's also known for hiking, shopping, and museums.

Volterra and Hvar: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Volterra or Hvar?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Hvar. Although Volterra and Hvar are popular destinations, Hvar has more sights and attractions for tourists. Hvar is very popular for its nightlife, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, and hiking, while Volterra attracts visitors for its museums, food, historical sights, and small town charm. Hvar is more touristy than Volterra and is known for its wild parties, beautiful buildings, and world class cuisine. It is also well known for Hvar Fort. Volterra is famous for its medieval history, its hilltop setting and its alabaster.

How is Volterra different from Hvar?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Volterra 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 Volterra. For such a large town there are a huge number of historic sights packed into a small area. Check out the Roman Theater, the Etruscan Museum, and the Duomo.

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 Volterra or Hvar? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Volterra is renowned for its local cuisine and restaurants. Also, Hvar is not as famous, but is still a good island to visit for its restaurants.

Many restaurants in Volterra have been singled out for their culinary prowess. The town is surrounded by the region of truffles, so you'll find this item included in all kinds of recipes. Pumpkin sauce is also a specialty of the area and there are also many local cheeses. Many restaurants also have bruschetta as an appetizer.

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.

Is Volterra or Hvar Better for Nightlife?

Hvar is terrific for nightlife. However, Volterra is not particularly known for nightlife and partying.

Hvar is a must-see party destination. 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.

Volterra doesn't have the most active nightlife scene. There are cozy bars and cafes where you can sip wine and soak up the atmosphere, but the town isn't known as a nightlife destination.

Is Volterra or Hvar Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Hvar is a popular place for the nearby scuba diving and snorkeling. However, Volterra 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.

Volterra is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Volterra or Hvar Better for Beaches?

Hvar is well known for its beaches. However, Volterra 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.

Volterra is not a beach destination.

Is Volterra or Hvar Better for its Old Town?

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

The old town of Volterra is one of the most recognized in the world. The walled town is perched on a hilltop and dates back to the 8th century BC. Visitors come specifically to explore its winding streets and stunning setting.

Hvar does not have a historic old town.

Is Volterra or Hvar Better for Hiking?

Hvar is a popular place for its hiking experiences. However, Volterra 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.

Volterra is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Volterra or Hvar?

Shopping is a popular activity in both Hvar and Volterra.

Volterra is a great destination for shopping. Some of the streets are lined with boutique shops and one of the most popular things to buy in town is Alabaster. You'll also find plenty of Italian wine from the nearby vineyards.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Hvar. 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 Volterra or Hvar Better for Families?

Hvar is well known for its family-friendly activities. Also, Volterra is still popular, but not quite as popular for its kid-friendly activities.

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.

Volterra offers lots of family activities. If you have a Twilight fan, this town is home to the Volturi, who are the royal family of vampires. For everyone else, its a charming town with medieval walls and wandering alleys that kids will enjoy exploring.

Is Volterra or Hvar Better for Couples?

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

Volterra is a great town for couples, as it has plenty to offer. It's unique atmosphere, amazing food, and medieval style make for a unique and world class couples destination. While many people visit as a day trip, you can spend the night and soak up the evening atmosphere as well.

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 Volterra or Hvar Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Hvar is terrific for backpackers. Also, Volterra is still popular, but not quite as popular for backpackers and budget travelers.

Hvar is a mecca for backpackers and 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.

Volterra is popular with backpackers and budget travelers. There's only one or two hostels in town, so if you're looking for a more social backpacker setting, then this may not be your spot. It does make for a great day trip though and if you're more interested in culture than meeting other backpackers, then definitely stop by.

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

Hvar is a popular place for its public transit. However, Volterra is not particularly known for times when you don't have a car.

You'll find some public transit in Hvar, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. Buses are operated by Cazmatrans Hva and they travel between the major municipalities.

Public transit is mostly limited in Volterra. Public transit isn't necessary as the city is best explored on foot.

Is Volterra or Hvar a more walkable city?

Volterra 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 Volterra on foot. Most people explore the town on foot.

Hvar is a somewhat walkable 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 Volterra Worth Visiting? and Is Hvar Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Hvar or Volterra?

How long in Volterra or Hvar?

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

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

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

Volterra is a small town where visitors enjoy the museums 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.

The beautiful island of Hvar offers museums and nightlife. Most people come for the beaches. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

A weekend in Volterra or Hvar?

Volterra is a fun place to experience. Most people visit for the food. 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 popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have a weekend, this island makes for a great vacation. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Hvar, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Five days in Volterra or Hvar?

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

Hvar is a popular choice for travelers. It's no surprise that nightlife is why people visit. Five days 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. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

A week in Volterra or Hvar?

Because Volterra 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.

Hvar is a great place to explore. It's no surprise that nightlife is why people visit. It's also a great beach destination, too. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. This island offers something for everyone.

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

When comparing the travel costs between Volterra 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 Volterra Expensive? and Is Hvar Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Volterra or Hvar?

Volterra has a larger population, and is about 3 times larger than the population of Hvar. When comparing the sizes of Volterra 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 Volterra 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 Volterra or Hvar in the Summer?

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

In the summer, Volterra is cooler than Hvar. Typically, the summer temperatures in Volterra in July average around 23°C (74°F), and Hvar averages at about 26°C (80°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Hvar this time of the year. In Volterra, it's very sunny this time of the year. Volterra usually receives less sunshine than Hvar during summer. Volterra gets 316 hours of sunny skies, while Hvar receives 345 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Volterra usually receives less rain than Hvar. Volterra gets 23 mm (0.9 in) of rain, while Hvar receives 28 mm (1.1 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Volterra or Hvar in the Autumn?

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

In October, Volterra is generally cooler than Hvar. Daily temperatures in Volterra average around 16°C (61°F), and Hvar fluctuates around 18°C (64°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Hvar. In the autumn, Volterra often gets less sunshine than Hvar. Volterra gets 177 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Hvar receives 200 hours of full sun.

Volterra receives a lot of rain in the autumn. Volterra usually gets more rain in October than Hvar. Volterra gets 123 mm (4.8 in) of rain, while Hvar receives 79 mm (3.1 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Volterra or Hvar in the Winter?

Both Hvar and Volterra are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. The winter months attract visitors to Volterra because of the museums, 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.

Volterra is cooler than Hvar in the winter. The daily temperature in Volterra averages around 7°C (45°F) in January, and Hvar fluctuates around 8°C (47°F).

Volterra usually receives less sunshine than Hvar during winter. Volterra gets 105 hours of sunny skies, while Hvar receives 128 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Volterra usually receives less rain than Hvar. Volterra gets 75 mm (3 in) of rain, while Hvar receives 83 mm (3.3 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Volterra or Hvar in the Spring?

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

In the spring, Volterra is cooler than Hvar. Typically, the spring temperatures in Volterra in April average around 13°C (55°F), and Hvar averages at about 15°C (59°F).

In Hvar, it's very sunny this time of the year. In the spring, Volterra often gets less sunshine than Hvar. Volterra gets 192 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Hvar receives 212 hours of full sun.

Volterra usually gets more rain in April than Hvar. Volterra gets 79 mm (3.1 in) of rain, while Hvar receives 66 mm (2.6 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Hvar and Volterra