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

Should you visit Zaragoza or Hvar?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Zaragoza or Hvar, this travel comparison, which includes costs, can help. The overall cost of travel is usually a consideration when deciding where to go next, and the cost comparison down below can help you decide based on the average prices from other travelers along with your own travel budget.

Zaragoza

Zaragoza is a cultural, historical, and compact 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 beautiful, vibrant, and energetic island. With stunning beauty, it attracts visitors from all around. Other popular activities here include museums, nightlife, and food.

Zaragoza and Hvar: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Zaragoza or Hvar?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Hvar. Although Zaragoza 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 Zaragoza is known for its museums, historical sights, and shopping. Hvar is more touristy than Zaragoza and is known for its wild parties, beautiful buildings, and world class cuisine. It is also home to Hvar Fort. Zaragoza is popular for its grand landmarks, local cuisine, and rich cultural scene.

How is Zaragoza different from Hvar?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Zaragoza 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 Zaragoza. For such a small city, it really has a large number of cultural and historical attractions. The Basilica of Our Lady of Pilar is the most recognizable sight, but there's also the Museum of the Roman Forum of Caesaraugusta, the cathedral of Zaragoza, and the Aljafería Palace, among others.

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 Zaragoza or Hvar? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

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

Dining out in Zaragoza is an experience not to be missed. There are authentic restaurants that cater to locals and tourists alike. You'll also find some interesting food tours around town. Tapas are popular, as is chocolate and fresh, traditional recipes.

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 Zaragoza or Hvar Better for Nightlife?

Hvar is an amazing island to visit for its evening party scene. Also, Zaragoza is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit 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.

With a handful of venues, visitors can find a fairly lively vibe in Zaragoza. The nightlife is at its best on weekends, when students and young locals head out on the town. Many evenings start with tapas and wine, but there are nightclubs and dancing as well.

Is Zaragoza or Hvar Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Hvar is a nice place to visit for snorkeling and scuba diving. However, Zaragoza is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Hvar has a few areas where visitors often go scuba diving or snorkeling. 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.

Zaragoza is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Zaragoza or Hvar Better for Beaches?

Hvar is notable for the beach. However, Zaragoza is not a beach destination.

You'll have a great beach vacation in Hvar. 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.

Zaragoza is not a beach destination.

Is Zaragoza or Hvar Better for its Old Town?

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

Zaragoza is an extremely popular place to visit the historic old town area. The old town is small but filled with monumental buildings and an authentic atmosphere.

Hvar does not have a historic old town.

Is Zaragoza or Hvar Better for Hiking?

Hvar is a nice place to visit for the nearby hiking options. However, Zaragoza is not a hiking destination.

Hvar has hiking trails worth exploring. 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.

Zaragoza is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Zaragoza or Hvar?

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

Zaragoza is a popular shopping destination with plenty of stores. The city has many local shops selling locally produced items and interesting souvenirs. There are also boutiques, markets, and vintage shops that are fun to browse though.

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 Zaragoza or Hvar Better for Families?

Hvar is notable for its family-friendly activities. Also, Zaragoza is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit 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.

Zaragoza is a family-friendly city. When your kids get their fill of architecture and history, you can head to the Zaragoza Aquarium. Also worth a visit is the Emoz Museum, which is an origami museum. And if you need a break from sightseeing, take a kayak out on the Ebro River.

Is Zaragoza or Hvar Better for Couples?

Zaragoza and Hvar are both high quality to visit as a couple.

Zaragoza is a very popular place to visit for couples. Filled with culture, beauty, and monumental buildings, this is a small and romantic city. It's particularly romantic at night when the streets are quiet and many of the buildings are lit up.

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 Zaragoza or Hvar Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Hvar is an amazing island to visit for backpackers. Also, Zaragoza is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for backpackers and budget travelers.

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.

Zaragoza is a good city to visit for backpackers. There are enough hostels around town to choose from, and while it's not the backpacker haven that some Spanish cities are, it still sees a good number of young travelers.

Is Zaragoza or Hvar Better for Students?

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

Zaragoza is a good city to visit for students. International students enjoy this small city because it has a local vibe where they can practice their Spanish and enjoy an authentic experience.

Hvar is not popular with students.

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

Zaragoza is notable 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.

Public transit in Zaragoza can get you to some places easily. There are buses and trams around the city.

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

Is Zaragoza or Hvar a more walkable city?

Zaragoza 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.

Zaragoza is a very walkable city. The city center is very walkable.

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 Zaragoza Worth Visiting? and Is Hvar Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Hvar or Zaragoza?

How long in Zaragoza or Hvar?

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

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

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

Visitors enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the destination of Zaragoza. 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 Zaragoza or Hvar?

Zaragoza 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 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 Zaragoza or Hvar?

You'll find museums and nightlife around the cultural destination of Zaragoza. 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.

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 Zaragoza or Hvar?

The cultural city of Zaragoza 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.

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 2-Week Tours from Barcelona, The Best Family-Friendly Tours to Spain, 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 Zaragoza and Hvar, we can see that Zaragoza 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 Zaragoza would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Zaragoza 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 Zaragoza Expensive? and Is Hvar Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Zaragoza or Hvar?

Zaragoza has a larger population, and is about 180 times larger than the population of Hvar. When comparing the sizes of Zaragoza 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 Zaragoza 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 Zaragoza or Hvar in the Summer?

Both Hvar and Zaragoza are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. The family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Zaragoza this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Hvar for the beaches, snorkeling, the hiking, and the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Zaragoza is generally around the same temperature as Hvar. Daily temperatures in Zaragoza average around 26°C (79°F), and Hvar fluctuates around 26°C (80°F).

It's quite sunny in Hvar. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Zaragoza. Zaragoza usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Hvar during summer. Zaragoza gets 344 hours of sunny skies, while Hvar receives 345 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Zaragoza usually receives less rain than Hvar. Zaragoza gets 17 mm (0.7 in) of rain, while Hvar receives 28 mm (1.1 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Zaragoza or Hvar in the Autumn?

Both Hvar and Zaragoza during the autumn are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Zaragoza for the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area. Also, many visitors come to Hvar in the autumn for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

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

In Hvar, it's very sunny this time of the year. In the autumn, Zaragoza often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Hvar. Zaragoza gets 196 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Hvar receives 200 hours of full sun.

Zaragoza usually gets less rain in October than Hvar. Zaragoza gets 35 mm (1.4 in) of rain, while Hvar receives 79 mm (3.1 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Zaragoza or Hvar in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Zaragoza and Hvar. Many visitors come to Zaragoza in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, most visitors come to Hvar for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months.

In the winter, Zaragoza is around the same temperature as Hvar. Typically, the winter temperatures in Zaragoza in January average around 8°C (46°F), and Hvar averages at about 8°C (47°F).

Zaragoza usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Hvar during winter. Zaragoza gets 131 hours of sunny skies, while Hvar receives 128 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Zaragoza usually receives less rain than Hvar. Zaragoza gets 23 mm (0.9 in) of rain, while Hvar receives 83 mm (3.3 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Zaragoza or Hvar in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Zaragoza as well as Hvar. Most visitors come to Zaragoza for the natural beauty during these months. Also, the spring months attract visitors to Hvar because of the beaches and the natural beauty.

In April, Zaragoza is generally around the same temperature as Hvar. Daily temperatures in Zaragoza average around 15°C (58°F), and Hvar fluctuates around 15°C (59°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Hvar. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Zaragoza this time of the year. In the spring, Zaragoza often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Hvar. Zaragoza gets 217 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Hvar receives 212 hours of full sun.

Zaragoza usually gets less rain in April than Hvar. Zaragoza gets 34 mm (1.3 in) of rain, while Hvar receives 66 mm (2.6 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Hvar and Zaragoza