Hvar vs Split: Weather, Costs & Best Time to Visit (2026)
Hvar, Croatia vs Split, Croatia: Which Should You Visit in 2026?
Quick Verdict
For those seeking a blend of history, city life, and easy access to the mainland, Split is an excellent choice. If your priority is island hopping, stunning beaches, and a more relaxed, yet chic, atmosphere, Hvar should be your focus.
Best for Beach Lovers
Hvar, Croatia
Hvar's islands and numerous coves offer more idyllic and secluded beach experiences compared to Split's city beaches.
Best for Culture
Split, Croatia
Split is home to the unparalleled Diocletian's Palace, a UNESCO site that is a living testament to Roman history and architecture.
Best for Budget Travelers
Split, Croatia
As a larger city and transportation hub, Split generally offers more affordable accommodation and dining options than the island of Hvar.
Best Weather in Summer
Hvar, Croatia or Split, Croatia
Both destinations experience very similar, excellent warm and sunny weather with minimal rainfall in July and August, perfect for summer enjoyment.
Best Next Step
Split, Croatia comes out ahead more often in this comparison. Check live prices before you book, especially if your dates are flexible.
Choosing between Hvar and Split for your Croatian adventure? Both offer a taste of the stunning Dalmatian coast, but they cater to slightly different travel styles. Split, a vibrant city, serves as a major transportation hub and boasts the magnificent Diocletian's Palace, a UNESCO World Heritage site that forms the living heart of the city. It's a place where ancient history seamlessly blends with modern life, offering a dynamic urban experience.
Hvar, on the other hand, is an island paradise renowned for its glamorous atmosphere, crystal-clear waters, and aromatic lavender fields. While it has a sophisticated reputation, it also offers serene beauty and charming villages. Hvar is a destination that promises relaxation, natural beauty, and a touch of upscale charm, often accessible via ferry from Split.
Weather Comparison: Hvar, Croatia vs Split, Croatia
Month
Hvar, Croatia High
Hvar, Croatia Rain
Split, Croatia High
Split, Croatia Rain
Jan
54°F
80mm
50°F
80mm
Feb
55°F
75mm
52°F
70mm
Mar
59°F
70mm
57°F
60mm
Apr
64°F
60mm
63°F
65mm
May
72°F
45mm
72°F
50mm
Jun
79°F
30mm
79°F
40mm
Jul
84°F
20mm
84°F
25mm
Aug
84°F
25mm
84°F
35mm
Sep
79°F
50mm
77°F
60mm
Oct
72°F
85mm
70°F
90mm
Nov
63°F
110mm
61°F
110mm
Dec
57°F
95mm
54°F
95mm
When to Visit
Both Hvar and Split shine brightest in May, June, September, and early October, offering pleasant weather and fewer crowds than the peak summer months. July and August are hot and busy, ideal for those who thrive in a vibrant, energetic atmosphere.
Hvar, Croatia vs Split, Croatia: Pros & Cons
Hvar, Croatia
•Pros: Stunning natural beauty, picturesque beaches and coves, sophisticated atmosphere, famous for lavender fields.
•Pros: Excellent for day trips to nearby islands (Pakleni Islands).
•Cons: Can be more expensive, especially during peak season.
•Cons: Getting to and from Hvar requires a ferry, adding travel time and cost.
Split, Croatia
•Pros: Rich historical and cultural heritage (Diocletian's Palace).
•Pros: Major transportation hub, making it easy to access other parts of Croatia.
•Pros: Bustling city atmosphere with a lively promenade (Riva) and markets.
•Cons: Beaches are generally less pristine than those on Hvar or its surrounding islands.
📖
Planning a trip to Split, Croatia? Grab a guidebook.
Browse Lonely Planet, Fodor's, Rick Steves, and more on Amazon — packed with maps, itineraries, and local tips.
As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Hvar, Croatia or Split, Croatia cheaper?+
Split, Croatia is generally more budget-friendly than Hvar, Croatia. As a major city and mainland destination, Split offers a wider range of accommodation and dining options at varying price points, including more affordable choices. Hvar, being an island and a more exclusive destination, tends to have higher prices, especially during the high season.
Which is better in summer?+
Both Hvar and Split offer fantastic experiences in the summer months (June-August) with very similar warm, sunny weather and minimal rain. Split offers a lively city experience with its historic palace and promenade, while Hvar provides island charm with beautiful beaches and vibrant nightlife. Your preference will depend on whether you prefer an urban setting or an island getaway during the summer.
Hvar, Croatia or Split, Croatia for first-time visitors?+
For first-time visitors to Croatia, Split might be a slightly more accessible and well-rounded introduction. Its major historical site, Diocletian's Palace, is a must-see and its status as a transport hub makes it easy to explore further. However, if your ideal first trip involves stunning beaches and an island feel, Hvar is also a wonderful, albeit potentially more focused, choice.
How far apart are Hvar, Croatia and Split, Croatia?+
Hvar, Croatia and Split, Croatia are relatively close, with Hvar being an island off the coast of Split. The distance by sea is approximately 30-40 kilometers (18-25 miles). Travel between them is typically done by ferry or catamaran, with journey times ranging from about 50 minutes to 1.5 hours, depending on the type of vessel and route.
Can you visit both Hvar, Croatia and Split, Croatia in one trip?+
Absolutely! Visiting both Hvar and Split in one trip is a very popular and highly recommended itinerary. Many travelers use Split as a base to explore the city and then take a ferry to spend several days on the island of Hvar, enjoying its beaches and atmosphere. The ease of ferry connections makes it a seamless addition to any Dalmatian coast itinerary.
