The Island of Hvar, situated in central Dalmatia, Croatia, is green and diverse.
Finally, it happened. Accompanied by dolphins gliding alongside the ferry from Split, I stepped onto the island of calmness, nature, and peace — yet also rich with historical monuments, heritage, and timeless rural architecture. Strolling down the promenades of ancient towns felt like stepping into a movie, taking me back to another era. Most of the Dalmatian houses were built of stone, their walls whispering stories of centuries past.
Wandering through the narrow alleys of Vrboska, listening to the wind weaving through treetops, or hiking along the island’s rugged landscapes and shores, I could truly feel the spirit of the Adriatic Sea.
Hvar lies just a two-hour ferry ride from Split Harbour. On one side, it almost brushes the Makarska Riviera, while on the other, it is embraced by the islands of Brač, Vis, Korčula, and the Pelješac peninsula. Stretching northwest to southeast for just over 68 kilometres, it is one of Croatia’s largest islands. Hvar Town, sharing the island’s name, is its vibrant heart and administrative centre. The northwest part of the island is blessed with freshwater springs, while the rest of Hvar is known for its drier, sun-drenched landscapes.
Why should you travel on Hvar?
Hvar Island has a history going back to around 6000 BC. That long tradition has grown it into both a posh vacation resort destination, combined with a comfortable Mediterranean lifestyle, surmounted by a vibrant cultural and historical heritage. Yeah, let’s not talk about its attractiveness among nature lovers. The island has been a popular and treasured vacation destination for Croatians and international visitors all over the years. Besides being renowned for its excellent nature, Hvar Island receives no less than 2800 hours of sunlight every year. This statistical fact classifies it as the sunniest Croatian island with a few rainy days.
It’s no surprise that Hvar Island, with its mild winters, rich history and stunning views overlooking the Adriatic Sea, attracts many vacationers. This island is ideal for stunning nature and beach seekers. What impressed me the most is the beautiful views of the island roads. You might ask yourself which corner of the island shines the brightest, and what experiences truly make Hvar unforgettable. Everything depends on a few factors. Such as how many days you’re going to spend at Hvar, how budget-minded you’re, whether you havea vehicle, and whether you intend to live at one location, or move around.
Whenever about that, I prepared a to-do list on Hvar Island that may be useful for you and hope you’ll find our Hvar Island Travel Guide helpful. So let me show you below the best Hvar attractions and the top things to do in Hvar, an island well-known for the most favourite stops:
- Hvar Town
- Vrboska
- Stari Grad
- Jelsa
Hvar Old town
The city of Hvar is the island’s most spacious, best-known, and most-visited area. It’s considered to be the main town on the island. Hvar city is both the most popular resort on the island and the most luxurious place to live. Hvar offers a multitude of beaches, casinos, pubs, old structures and architectural landmarks as well as the island’s finest nightlife.
What I noticed at a glance is a large square with the St. Stephen’s cathedral, both bearing the same name. Aside from it, many palms overlooking the wonderful seafront, and the beautiful promenade with the beaches made me feel like in another world. If you walk there in the evening, the atmosphere will remind you like you’re in the Hollywood summer movie scene. Let’s see the most recognized attractions in the city of Hvar now.
Saint Stephen’s Square and Cathedral
As already mentioned, the St. Stephen Square, dating back to the 13th century and its cathedral from the 17th century, will be probably the first attraction you’ll say while coming on to the island. The square was one of the first developing islands since its development started in the north before expanding to the south. Marvellous stone is surrounded by twisting stone streetswas created by collectinga cove in about 4,500 square meters that were once part of the bay. Sections of the square could be identified in the north, dating back to the 15th century.
The remarkable cathedral, situated on the eastern side of the square, was built on an early-Christian church’s foundations in the 6th century. It acquired its present appearance in the 16th and 17thcentury. Look to the beautiful renaissance bell tower next to the cathedral. Aside from the other two bell towers also situated on the island of Hvar – St. Mark, Franciscan and the ruined one of St. Veneranda, the bell tower of St. Stephen Cathedral is considered to be the nicest in Dalmatia.
The painting lovers will like many valuable items that are preserved in Hvar’s Cathedral. Those are works of famous painters like Stefano Celesti, Palma Junior and the Spanish painter Juan Boschettus. However, the most renowned painting is an example of proto-Venetian art from Madonna. The work that originated back in 1220 is considered one of the oldest in Dalmatia.
Fortica the Fort
Looking up from Hvar Town on the hill you’ll see a fort built on top. The UNESCO heritagefort named Forticawas constructed in the early 16th century under Venetian rule and then rebuilt in 1557. Though Fortica fort seems to be high, there is not as complicated to reach it as it looks. Just take a walk through the park northwest of St. Stephen’s Square, and you will come to the Fortica.
The ascend to the top of the walls will be valuable. Once you reach the Fortica fort, you will have a chance to enjoy stunning panoramic views of Hvar and the nearby PakleniIslands. In the Hvar, the defence has preserved a collection of amphora and other artefacts from antiquity dating back to the Middle Ages. Don’t hesitate to grab your camera and get a stunning snapshot. If you are a forts fan, especially those with a beautiful view. You have one day to spend on Hvar only, not to skip it. A jump to this magnificent fort is one of that must-do on Hvar!
Franciscan Monastery & Museum
Museum fans will find themself happy overlooking the Franciscan Monastery & Museum in Hvar. It houses stunning artwork and informative historical architecture capable of matching any other Hvar Island artwork. The Franciscan Monastery, founded in the 16th century by a family of stonemasons, overlooks a spectacular green cove and a 300-year-old cypress tree in the courtyard. Step over and look at her odd shape.
Historic coins, maps, and records may be found at the museum. The museum’s two most famous items were Ptolemy’s Atlas printed in 1524, and The Last Supper, a work by Matteo Ingoli. The nearest church, Our Lady of Charity, has further works of sculpture, including three polyptychs by Francesco da Santacroce from 1583.
Renaissance Theater
The theatre is an essential feature of the Renaissance. Throughout this period they were turning up all over Europe. The Renaissance Theatre, built-in 1612 yet still going strong today, is one of Hvar’s largest theatres. Many argue that this theatre was Europe’s first theatre, available to the upper and lower class.
Although in 2008 performances started being staged there, and much of the theatre is under restoration, you can still try to tour it. Within, you’ll find frescoes and baroque loggias, relics from the time when the arts flourished.
Picturesque places
Now when we described the attractions of the biggest City of Hvar, let me mention some other interesting places and points on the island. Yes, there are a lot of small villages on Hvar. Did you know that Hvar has more than 100?
Stari Grad Hvar
The fans of the old and picturesque villages will like Stari Grad Hvar. Established in 384 BC by Greek colonists Hvar island’s historic gem is considered one of the oldest settlements In Croatia and one of Europe’s oldest settlements. Located in a deep and protected cove on the northwest side of the island, it is a secure and predictable harbour for all sailors sailing the Mediterranean.
The city sits along the long, deep bay at the end of the old town. Aside from its Parish church of St. Stephen, bearing the same name as that one in the City of Hvar, the most notable monument is a 16th-century Castle Tvrdalj. Just take a walk through the Dominican Monastery’s colourful streets via Tvrdalj (home of the famous poet Petar Hektorović). It is like a walking through time and the history of the city. The Stari Grad old town is comprised of small stone buildings, paved streets and various churches. Beaches aren’t the powerful Stari Grad, but it’s a popular summer destination anyway. Each summer there are in Stari Grad Festival, numerous concerts and recitals, and the International Summer Music School. At the same time, sports lovers will be able to enjoy the Faros Marathon, Croatia’s world competition in distance swim.
Jelsa
Jelsa is one of the most picturesque places on the island, and lovers of small, charming spots will enjoy it. The tourist center on the north shore of the island is located in the central part of Hvar. Surrounded by the scent of dense pine trees, sandy beaches, various vineyards, olive plantations, and cultural attractions, Jelsa offers an authentic Hvar Mediterranean experience that will make your visit unforgettable. The area around Jelsa is rustic, with sights such as St. Mary’s Church, Our Lady of Health Church, Civitas Vetus Ielsae (Old Jelsa town), St. John’s Square, and The Plaza. At the same time, you can take a stroll through the history of this fascinating area.
Jelsa is except for its small stone house and cobblestone streets full of various coves. Besides, it is plentiful beautiful sand and pebble beaches, plenty of sunshine and clean water. Located in the middle of the island of Jelsa, this is the best starting point for many excursions: Grapčeva cave and Humac, Tor, the nearby villages of Vrisnik, Svirče, Pitve and the famous Zlatni rat beach in Bol on Brač island.
Vrboska
One of my favourites on the list of Hvar places makes the smallest town of Vrboska. It is renowned as the biggest fishing village on the island. The tiny place is located on both sides of a long narrow river, whose “Vela and Mola Bonda” sides are linked by a short stone bridge. Don’t be surprised if you hear it carries the nameLittle Venice.
You’ll feel yourself undoubtedly very creative while strolling Vrboska. The narrow bridges are almost the most visible architectural attractions besides lined paths, Victorian and Gothic- houses on both sides of the bay and a very tiny island. And all of that surrounded by dense pine woods makes Vrboska a sight that makes none indifferent. The reflection of stone houses in the water and peacefully anchored sunbathing fishing boats places a particular beauty and warmth with the unique charm.
I walked from Vrboska to the accommodation Senses Resort at sunset, and I like it very much. There is a circular trail on the peninsula part near the Hotel for all those who want to practice peaceful surroundings. I made it in the early morning before the seminar on Senses. You can even too.
Local tip: Fishing Museum in Vrboska. As already mentioned, Vrboska is the fishermen’s place, which testifies to the rich collection at the Ribarski Muzej (Fishing Museum). Today the old fishing village is a tourist city that will attract any traveller with its charm, countless icons and calmness that shines from every corner.
St. Lawrence Church
Vrboska is also an excellent spot for all history buffs. It is undoubtedly an inevitable stop to see the island’s cultural heritage. It presents the origin of island architecture and atmosphere as it once was. One of them is the Church Fortress and St. Lawrence. Though not visible at a glance, both of them situated on the very top of the village areeasily reached by the straightforward climb. Inside of it is covered numerous pieces of sculpture.
Dol village
This is the usual starting point for a hike to the highest peak on the island St. Nikola. The village of Dollies is only 6 km from Stari Grad. Its fascinating location is composed of two sections, the western portion named St. Mary’s Dol and the eastern portion of St. Ana’s Dol. There is only one altar in St. Mary’s Dol inside St. Mary’s Cathedral, the renowned Croatian sculptor Ivan Rendić (1849-1932) with Madona’s image from the 15th century created by an unknown Tuscan artist.
The Tunnel of Pitve
Many of us probably did not know or were surprised when we saw a tunnel while driving along the island road towards the town of Hvar. This is a tunnel named “Pitve-Zavala”. It connects the village of Pitve on the island of Hvar, in the centre of the island, with Zavala and several other settlements on the south side of the island. It was until recently the only passage to the payments on the south side of the island.
Be active on Hvar
Putokoza likes to be active while exploring Hvar by island trek.
Hiking on Hvar
Besides the untouched pebble beaches, epic towns and beautiful vistas, Hvar provide a broad range of spectacular terrain for hikers as Putokoza is.
Putokoza Hiking Tip: Saint Nicholas–a hike to the highest point of the island of Hvar. Yes, this is Must-do activity if you have the luck to have time while you’re on Hvar. Hikers will enjoy listening to the infinite wonder of nature as ascending the island’s highest mountain, the peak of Sv. Nikola (628 m). Its cliffs look straight down into the sea. Let’s touch Hvar io one hand from it. Take a start the route from the village of Dol.The gorgeous vistas there would make you feel like you’re on top of the globe.
On the very upper edge, you’ll notice a quaint little St. Nicholas church whose presence was first recorded in 1495. The small chapel, dating from the 15thcentury, stands at the top of the hill. Only below its level is a farm growing wine grapes at an altitude of about 500 meters above sea level, with a few sheep and goats that we especially like. Wine, prosciutto, and chess may also be ordered at this estate, along with numerous other meals.
A beautiful neolithic cave with a chapel of Our Lady of the Snows (Gospa od Snijega) dating back to the 16th century is a particular attraction. A lovely mix of light, sea, mountains and their secret nooks is an excellent cure for the healing of mind and body. Within the cave is also a well of fresh water! There is rosemary and lavender oil distillery in the tiny village of St. Nedjelja. Get a lot of fun!
Hvar climbing
As the most other Adriatic more expansive islands and Hvar has it. And the climbing area is next to Sv. Nedilja village. A Putokoza’s favourite activity again. Free climbing fans can enjoy the numerous arranged paths. Enjoy your climb, check your ropes with the carabiners and stay safe.
Hvar Kayaking
If you don’t feel unwell with the sea, just take a kayak from Hvar Town to the Pakleni Islands. If you don’t have your kayak, you can always rent it. The half-day small-group kayak adventure will let you enjoy the attractiveness of the blue Adriatic glittering sea. If you decide on a tour, the organizers mostly offer lunch on one of the small hidden pebble beaches.
Daily tours from Hvar
Sure, there are numerous of them you can make. You just need to decide whenever you want to stay on the island of Hvar or sail away. Here we listed some of the ideas.
Šćedro Island
Šćedro lies along the south part of Hvar, a smaller island that is a protected nature reserve. Spend the day here immersing your feet in the waters of Šćedro’s many coves. Even though you won’t find it teeming with crowds, nor will you be the only one. Many naval boats take anchorage here during the day to enjoy its splendid bays.
The Oldest Olive Tree On The Island in the village of Zastražišće
Aside from the olive groves, we could see alongside the island, you probably haven’t known that Hvar has one of the oldest ones not only on the island in the world. The oldest olive tree on Hvar, which was put under heritage protection in 1964, is almost unknown and is situated beyond the eastern village of Zastražišće, which it encircles. Experts put its age at 2,500 years old which – if valid – would make it one of the world’s ten oldest olive trees. And even if you didn’t plan to get there, we recommend to look an indication of Zastražišće and stopping by.
Yes, activities are something that we most like. As you can already notice when you look at Hvar island’s map, you can choose what you can do on the island. For example, the driving bicycle aside from its insular roads in a company with the sheep and goats or goat hiking to the island’s highest peak St.Nikola is certain must-do activities. So let’s describe some of them.
Pakleni Islands
Just a short boat ride from Hvar, it’s the perfect stop for enjoying serenity in hidden coves and uncrowded beaches, swimming in the crystalline sea among unspoiled nature.An archipelago called Forski škoji (Islands of Hvar) made of twenty-something rocks is a unique, beautiful planet, situated in front of the town of Hvar.The breathtaking Pakleni islandssurrounded by turquoise seas and full of hidden beaches, peaceful bays with a few bars are a great place to spend a day surfing, snorkelling, kayaking or just relaxing by the shore.
Legend has it Pakleni Islands came into existence due to a secret love between a nymph and the sea god Poseidon. If you want to know how Hvar does it look from the sea, the best idea is to trip to Galešnik. This little island of the first in a row of all Pakleni islands, situated at the very entrance of the port of Hvar. It is an excellent opportunity to see the most beautiful view of the town of Hvar.If you want to seek the freedom, smell of untouched nature, clean waters and solitude don’t look further from Zvečevo. One of the Pakleni Islands is situated and could be reached by boat from Vrboska or Jelsa.
Grapčeva Cave
Though rarely known Hvar attraction, The Grapčeva Caves, which date back to the Neolithic period is the most significant geological site in the Adriatic, situated on the southern part of the island Hvar. Cultural objects from 4 B.C. found in the cave show that the ancient cave occupants were comfortable with Ionian and Aegean polychrome ceramics.
Crvene Stijene (Red Rocks)
Yes, Putokoza adore the cliffs. And more the high peaks. One is the Crvene Stijene cliffs, a geological form of vertically disintegrated reddish cliffs that fall steeply into the sea. The unique activity of the natural power of sea and rain has left its imprint on the limestone layers making an incredible geological artwork. Grab a camera, take a photo of the rocks and take care while the rocky beach could always be dangerous and challenging.
Dubrovnik
The UNESCO-listed “Pearl of the Adriatic” is Croatia’s most popular destination, and indeed a must-visit. If you don’t plan to visit on your own, be sure and book a day tour from Hvar. Boat trips leave daily to Dubrovnik, or you can get a private boat transfer. They both will bring you to Dubrovnik marble streets surrounded by medieval ramparts, once walked by Richard Burton and Elizabeth Taylor who liked to enjoy romantic liaisons.
Enjoy the view from Dubrovnik walls and learn about its history. Take a look into the impressive sites like one of the oldest pharmacies in Europe at the Franciscan Monastery and the 15th-century Rector’s Palace. It has been transformed into the Cultural History Museum with beautifully restored rooms, coats of arms and coins or portraits.
Beach swimming on Hvar
If beach hopping is your holiday style, Hvar might just be the right destination to visit Croatia. With its length of 250 km, Hvar’s sea line provides enough bathing opportunities and a diverse variety of beaches: rugged, pebbly and sandy beaches. Even though the island is trendy and has tons of visitors throughout the summer, you can still find your little (semi)private place by the beach. The Adriatic seawater is very bright and has a unique brilliant colour on Hvar, so you won’t fail with any of the coasts you choose. Just grab one beach that you like.
Sv. Nedilja, Zogon Beach
A beautiful pebble beach is situated on a rocky coastline on the southern Hvar. That shore has cliffs that rise majestically out of the Adriatic. The nature of swimmers and divers will like it because the water is incredibly bright. While it is glittering as the sun shines, it seems to be as in paradise. For children, there is a tiny sandy beach called Zogon. The beach with the depth increases slowly from shallow to deep – even grown-ups appreciate it, so they can relax in the water in complete calm.
Lučišća Beach
Lučišća Beach is to be located on the south side of the island, not so far from Sv. Nedilja village. Except for crystal clear waters and pines forest, the journey there will enable the stunning views. Lučišća Beach is a tranquil beach where one would like to swim in the season. Parking at the beach can be difficult. However, most tourists come by ferry. While you are there, spend a lovely day lying on the beach or surfing and swimming, or be adventurous and take a dive. The hiking lovers will adore hiking the rocks above it.
Dubovica Beach
Dubovica as one of the most popular and safest beaches in Hvar lies on the south side, just before you reach Stari Grad. The elegant, ancient stone structures are one of the vital main subjects along the shore. Dubovica Beach’s glass blue water and Hvar Island’s calm environment attract many tourists during the year. You can find a restaurant along the pebble beach, which serves delicious food. Getting to the beach needs a short walk, but you’ll enjoy every moment of it once you’re there. Why we like it: The area is beautiful, so it is charming outdoor.
Local tip: There could be crowds on these beach types.
Grebišće Beach
Located in the well-known sand cove Grebišće 1500 m from the centre of Jelsa, the beach bearing the same name as the bay is the favourite beach for Jelsa visitors. All those sand fans would like it. This Hvar’s finest family-friendly sandy beach is nothing glamorous. Still, children who want sandcastles would love them and enjoy building the sandcastles.
Jerolim Beach
Jerolim Beach is a vanishingly rare beach type, situated on Jerolim Island since it is a nudist beach. In particular, CNN had called it one of the world’s best nudist beaches. Not only is the real beach outstanding, but there is also wildlife everywhere over the shore, and nature is predominant around that shore. Several bars can be located along Jerolim Shore, where you can relax and wait for your drinks.
Hvar events and festivals
There are a lot of them, especially during the summer. However, will mention a few of the most famous and attractive.
Hvar Lavender Festival
Hvar Island has excellent natural talent, lavender, and lavender is a trademark of Hvar Island. Following its tradition in lavender fields, the island has a fantastic atmosphere during the Hvar lavender season. You can enjoy it at The Lavender Festival which brings many lavander and plant, lovers, to Hvar Island each June.In addition to presentations on lavender distillation, and many of the typical homemade souvenirs you can take home packed in your small draws, during the festival is also possible to taste dishes made with lavender in the small village of Velo Grablje.
Jelsa Wine Fest fair
Look no further than the Jelsa Wine Fest – Fešta Vina, if you are hunting for a good taste of Hvar Island. Every year this magnificent wine fair takes place over the last weekend in August. The Jelsa Festa Vina features Hvar Island’s finest wines and other speciality cocktails, while also offering plenty of music and dancing with live concerts downtown. As Jelsa Wine Fest Fair attracts tourists from all over the country, keep in mind all the hotels are always booked during the festival. If you’re looking to be during it on the island, look to book accommodation in forwards. The last weekend of August is a beautiful time for travel, and everything seems to be more peaceful.
Forska Fešta Pulene
If you see a group of boats that can be identified at Hvar Island Harbor in late October, then you will know it’s a Forska Fešta. The Forska Fešta Paulene, also known as the Modern Sailboat Festival, has become a renowned festival honouring Hvar Island’s tradition with sea vessels. Pulene comes from the word “Pulena“, the wooden idol on the front of the boats set up to appease the gods.
Dormouse Festival
A regional group from the village of Dol proposed eight or so years ago to establish a festival commemorating their village’s unique culture and traditions. It’s been branded The Puhijada. One feature of this festival celebrates the Dormouse or Puh love as we call it in Croatian. The Dol people have continued the practice of dormice hunting and eating, which they have been doing since ancient times. The Puhijada finishes off with an incredible courtyard BBQ and lots of Croatian food. Even the dormouse is far away to be my favourite food. Participating in the Puhijada held at the beginning of August is one of the funniest things you can do while you’re on the island of Hvar.
Hvar Island Easter procession
Traditional procession through seven churches has to hold Each Easter on Hvar Island for over 500 years ago. The songs sung are considered to be the oldest crucifixion in Europe.
Getting to the island of Hvar
The only possibility to come to Hvar is seaway, so it means by ferry boat, own yacht or ship.
⛴️ By Ferry. Split is the main harbour connecting Hvar, with ferries running on the Split–Hvar line to either Stari Grad or Hvar Town. Another option is the Drvenik–Hvar line, which takes passengers to Sućuraj at the island’s easternmost point. Besides these two routes, you can also take inter-island or coastal ferries. These are much longer sea journeys, but in their own way, they are a fantastic ride. Jadrolinija operates ferries from Split to Hvar year-round, with frequency varying by season.
✈️By Air: The nearest airports to Hvar Island are Split, Zadar (160 km), Dubrovnik (230 km), and Brač. If you are arriving via Split Airport, you can take either a shuttle bus or a local bus to Split Harbour. The ride takes around 30–40 minutes, after which you can board a ferry to Hvar.
🚆By Train (to Split): The nearest train station is in Split located right next to the bus station, and there is also a waiting room for passengers. From there, you can take the ferry to Stari Grad or Hvar Town.
🚌 By Bus: Besides the central bus station in Split connected with the bus stations for domestic and international cities. You can get to the ferry port in Split by bus, where you’ll then take the ferry to Hvar Island and, if needed, continue on another bus around the island.
🚗 By Car.Once you’ve made it to a ferry port on the island, whether in Stari Grad or Sućuraj harbour, there are plenty of insular roads running alongside the island of Hvar. You can drive almost the whole of Hvar, and the streets are made lengthwise all the island from Sućuruj to the city of Hvar.
🅿️ Parking in Hvar. It’s reachable in the designated parking places, and the charge depends on the parking zone.
