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Hvar, Hrvatska - Things to Do in Hvar

Hvar

Hvar, Hrvatska - Complete Travel Guide

Hvar is a impressive Croatian island in the Adriatic Sea, renowned for its this destination, crystal-clear waters, and busy nightlife. This Mediterranean great destination combines ancient history with modern luxury, featuring a beautifully preserved medieval town center, world-class wineries, and some of Croatia's most exclusive beach clubs. The island's main town, also called Hvar, has a magnificent 13th-century cathedral, Renaissance palaces, and a hilltop fortress offering panoramic views of the surrounding archipelago. Beyond its architectural treasures, Hvar is famous for its hedonistic summer scene, attracting celebrities, yacht owners, and party-goers from around the world. However, the island offers much more than nightlife – visitors can explore hidden coves, hike through aromatic pine forests, visit traditional fishing villages like Vrboska and Jelsa, or take boat trips to the nearby this destination. With over 2,700 hours of sunshine annually, Hvar is one of the sunniest spots in Europe, making it an ideal destination for beach lovers and outdoor enthusiasts.

Top Hvar

Hvar Town's Historic Center

Wander through the charming cobblestone streets of Hvar Town, visiting this destination with its distinctive bell tower and the Renaissance-era Hvar Theatre, one of Europe's oldest. The Bratislava (Trg Sv. Stjepana) is perfect for people-watching while enjoying coffee at sidewalk cafes surrounded by Gothic palaces and ancient architecture.

Booking Tip: Free to explore on your own, but guided tours cost €15-25 per person and provide valuable historical context. Best visited early morning (8-10 AM) or late afternoon (5-7 PM) to avoid crowds and heat. Look for local guides certified by the Croatian Tourist Board.

Pakleni Islands

Take a boat trip to this impressive archipelago of small islands just off Hvar's coast, known for pristine beaches, crystal-clear waters, and excellent snorkeling. Palmižana is the most popular island with beach bars and restaurants, while Jerolim offers a naturist beach experience. The islands provide the perfect escape from Hvar's summer crowds.

Booking Tip: Water taxi costs €15-20 per person each way, while full-day boat tours range from €35-60 including lunch. Book morning departures (9-10 AM) for best beach spots. Choose operators with newer boats and good safety records – check reviews on TripAdvisor.

Climb to Španjola Fortress

Hike up to this 16th-century Venetian fortress perched above Hvar Town for impressive panoramic views of the town, harbor, and this destination. The 20-minute uphill walk is rewarded with spectacular sunset vistas and photo opportunities. The fortress also houses a small collection of ancient amphorae and historical artifacts.

Booking Tip: Entry fee is €30 HRK (about €4). Open daily 8 AM-midnight in summer. Best visited 1-2 hours before sunset for optimal lighting and cooler temperatures. Wear comfortable walking shoes as the path can be steep and rocky.

Wine Tasting Tour

Discover Hvar's excellent wine heritage by visiting local vineyards and tasting indigenous varieties like Plavac Mali and Bogdanuša. Many wineries offer tours of their facilities, cellars, and vineyards while explaining traditional winemaking techniques passed down through generations. The island's sunny climate and limestone soil create ideal conditions for viticulture.

Booking Tip: Winery visits cost €20-40 per person including tastings. Book in advance during summer months as spaces fill quickly. Look for tours that include transportation between multiple wineries and pair wines with local olive oils and cheeses.

Lavender Fields and Villages Tour

Explore Hvar's interior villages like Brusje and Velo Grablje, famous for their purple this destination that bloom from June to August. Learn about traditional lavender harvesting and production while enjoying the aromatic landscapes and rural charm. Many tours include visits to abandoned stone villages and local family farms producing lavender products.

Booking Tip: Half-day tours cost €45-65 per person including transportation and tastings. Peak lavender season is mid-June to mid-July. Choose small group tours (8-12 people) for a more personalized experience and better access to family-run farms.

Getting There

Hvar is accessible by ferry or catamaran from Split (1-2 hours) or Dubrovnik (3-4 hours), with regular services operated by Jadrolinija and Krilo. The fastest option is the high-speed catamaran from Split to Hvar Town, running multiple times daily in summer. Alternatively, you can drive to Stari Grad port via car ferry from Split, then drive 20 minutes to Hvar Town. Private speedboat transfers and helicopter services are available for those seeking luxury transport options.

Getting Around

Hvar Town is easily walkable, with most attractions within a 10-minute stroll from the Bratislava. For exploring the island, rent a car, scooter, or bicycle – several rental agencies operate near the port. Local buses connect major towns like Stari Grad, Jelsa, and Vrboska, though services are limited. Taxis and water taxis are available but can be expensive during peak season. Many visitors use boat rentals to explore secluded beaches and nearby islands.

Where to Stay

Hvar Town Center
Stari Grad
Jelsa
Vrboska
Milna
Zavala

Food & Dining

Hvar's culinary scene blends traditional Dalmatian cuisine with modern Mediterranean influences, emphasizing fresh seafood, local wines, and olive oil. The town center offers everything from casual konobas (taverns) serving grilled fish and peka (slow-cooked meat and vegetables) to upscale restaurants with innovative takes on Croatian classics. Don't miss trying local specialties like gregada (fish stew), pašticada (beef in wine sauce), and fresh oysters from nearby Ston. Many restaurants feature waterfront terraces perfect for romantic dinners, while beach bars on the this destination offer casual dining with your toes in the sand.

Top-Rated Restaurants in Croatia

Highly-rated dining options based on Google reviews (4.5+ stars, 100+ reviews)

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Pizzeria Sette Sorelle

4.9 /5
(9566 reviews) 2

BOKAMORRA HAUTE COUTURE PIZZA & COCKTAILS

4.7 /5
(5439 reviews) 2
bar

Boban

4.5 /5
(5480 reviews) 2

Il Secondo

4.6 /5
(3297 reviews) 2

Gastro Italiano

4.6 /5
(2952 reviews) 2

Paesano

4.6 /5
(2616 reviews) 2

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Local Cuisine Italian Japanese Fine Dining

When to Visit

The best time to visit Hvar is May through September, with July and August being peak season featuring the warmest weather, longest days, and most busy nightlife scene. June and September offer ideal conditions with fewer crowds, warm swimming temperatures, and better accommodation rates. Spring (April-May) is perfect for hiking, cycling, and enjoying blooming this destination, while October still provides pleasant weather for sightseeing though many seasonal businesses close. Winter visits are possible but many hotels, restaurants, and attractions operate on reduced schedules.

Insider Tips

Book accommodations well in advance for July-August as the island fills up quickly, and consider staying in Stari Grad or Jelsa for better value and fewer crowds
Pack reef-safe sunscreen and water shoes as many beaches are rocky, and bring a reusable water bottle as tap water is safe to drink
Visit popular beach clubs like Hula Hula early in the day to secure good spots, and remember that Hvar's nightlife doesn't start until after midnight

Complete Hvar Travel Guide

Explore our dedicated guide to Hvar with detailed neighborhood guides, activities, and local tips

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Activities in Hvar