Hvar’s township is lined with 13th-century walls that embrace ornate Gothic palaces — this glimpse from a distance is the first taste of this island city's rich history and culture.
Whether island-hopping through Croatia or travelling mostly over land, Hvar is a city not to skip when visiting Croatia.
What to do in Hvar for a day
Hvar is known for its nightlife and celebrity sightings, but there’s so much more to the island capital than reaches the headlines. Step into a Mediterranean dream where cobblestone streets and ancient history await, and scenic, sheltered beaches provide the perfect place to unwind.
Old Town
Old Town, Hvar, Croatia by Jeremy van Heerde
Stroll the marble-clad streets, free from traffic, and immerse in the city’s vibrant nightlife, or simply enjoy the sunset behind the Venetian architecture of Hvar’s Old Town.
This is the true Hvar, the twisting laneways of the Old Town, where locals greet each other in doorways, people tend to their homes and families are heard enjoying a meal. Away from the main touristy parts of the city, a walking tour of this Old Town introduces dozens of attractions, like one of the first municipal theatres in Europe,
Look for the stunning Hvar Cathedral and the majestic Town loggia, a covered public space with a 15th-century clock. A local guide will share the many stories and insights that bring the Old Town to life — this is one of the city’s highlights.
Hvar Fortress
Hvar Fortress is a medieval castle on the site of an ancient Illyrian settlement that dates earlier than 500 BC. To get there, follow the signs from Stephen’s Square up the stairs, past the town walls and take the gentle, winding path through the pine forests.
The fortress, along with the city walls, is a secure and imposing stronghold, maintained for hundreds of years. Building on pre-existing fortifications, a new fortress was constructed in 1551 that would later protect residents from the devastating attack of the Turks in 1571. After withstanding this attack, nature would have her way in 1579 when lightning struck the gunpowder stores, causing an explosion.
The fortress was finally restored in the 17th century when Baroque bastions were added, and later the barracks were added under Maria Theresa’s direction. Inside the fortress is a museum with an amphora collection recovered from the ocean floor, and a terrace cafe with views across Hvar and the Pakleni Islands.
Hvar Fortress, Hvar, Croatia by Martina Orehek
Franciscan Monastery Museum
The Franciscan Monastery is an iconic postcard scene, the red roof and church tower sitting above the blue waters of the cove, where boats float in the bay. At sunset, the walls glow in the evening light. During the day, the museum is open to visitors.
Within the museum is a collection of Greek, Roman and Venetian coins, rare amphorae, and an ancient edition of Ptolemy’s Atlas dating to 1524. Perhaps most wonderful of all is a large painting of The Last Supper which is thought to be by Venetian painter Matteo Ingoli.
In the garden outside stands a 300-year-old Cypress tree. Hvar’s rich spiritual and religious culture is evident in the beautiful Renaissance cloister and the nearby Benedictine Convent where nuns make agave lace, a unique and delicate art form included in the UNESCO list of intangible cultural heritage.
Franciscan Monastery Museum, Hvar, Croatia by Adam Dickson
Relax and unwind in the evening sun
What better way to while away an afternoon than laying on a sunbed on a beach just a short walk from the centre of town?
First on the list is Pokonji Dol, a small cove beach reminiscent of a 1970s film. The beach is around a 25-minute walk from Hvar, a small, pebbled beach with clear, turquoise waters that beg to be entered. A couple of rustic restaurants serve ice-cold beer, chilled wine and the day’s catch cooked to perfection.
If that’s a little far, just 10 minutes west of Hvar Town is Bonj, with private pontoons and an exclusive club catering to the elite. Four-poster sunbeds are available for hire.
More things to do in Hvar Island, Croatia
Beyond the main city of Hvar, open roads wind through lavender fields to connect villages, towns and beaches. With time to explore Hvar Island, it’s worth venturing away from the city.
Visit the village of Vrisnik
In the hilltop village of Vrisnik, old stone houses are bordered by dry-stone walls, pretty courtyards and gardens. From the village square, panoramic views extend over the nearby town of Svirce and across carefully tended vineyards and olive groves.
Enjoy local hospitality and taste regional cuisine at a home-hosted lunch at a family restaurant. Visiting Vrisnik is a chance to see what it might be like to live on the island, away from the hustle of the tourist centre.
Explore Stari Grad
Stari Grad is a Venetian town and UNESCO World Heritage Listed-site, much quieter than Hvar, with simpler architecture and a modest vibe. Settled first by the Greeks, the town curves around a deep inlet where hundreds of small boats bob in the calm waters.
The white stone streets and marble pathways date back to 384 BC, fragranced by the bougainvillaea growing on street corners and the lavender scent wafting across the island. The UNESCO World Heritage Listed-site is a plain where the Ancient Greek system of field division is preserved.
From wine-tasting to dining, swimming at the local beach or trying lavender ice cream, there’s plenty of relaxing to do.
Tvrdalj Palace is the summer house built in the 16th century for aristocratic Croatian poet Petar Hektorovic, fortified against the attack of the Ottoman Turks to shelter local citizens. Inside are beautiful gardens, living spaces, and a sea-water fish pool.
Enjoy fresh local meals and Hvar cake
Local treat, Hvar, Croatia by Rachel McMahon
The food is exceptional all over the island, from the olive oil to the fresh seafood and locally made wines. It’s said that the fish around Hvar swim thrice, first in the ocean, then in the oil and finally in the wine in the stomach — the locals revere their food, which shows in the care taken with cooking.
Whitewashed alleys lead away from the main Stephen’s Square (where the Cathedral is) to boutique patisseries, gelato stores and other sweet treats. There’s everything from lavender ice cream to Hvar Cake, a traditional sweet, spicy dough mix cooked in olive oil. Choose from a variety of treats made by ‘grandma’s old recipes’, perfected over centuries, and pick up a pesticide-free, locally grown jam to take home — delicious!
Visit the holiday destination of the stars, enjoy the simple island life, lavender products and wine — Hvar awaits!
Hvar has much to offer discerning visitors, from the bustling city with all its glamour to the charm of the Old Town and the villages across the island. A key place to visit for wine lovers, seafood connoisseurs and those keen to dive in to see what life was like hundreds of years ago on this fascinating island, Hvar will delight visitors with its wide variety of experiences.
Cruise the islands of Croatia or explore the cities over land — it's time to start planning the next adventure!
Questions about Hvar, Croatia
What is Hvar best known for?
Hvar is the queen of the Dalmatian islands, a sought-after summer resort for the wealthy and famous. It’s known for its rich history and culture, architecture that dates back centuries and history of resilience, the local wine, lavender and olive oil.
What are the best beaches to visit in Hvar?
Palmizana Beach on the nearby Pakleni Islands features secluded pristine water and lush pine forests. The local beaches to Hvar are pebbled and vibrant places to spend time, with bars lining the bay at Dubovica and Pokonji Dol.
What is the best way to get around Hvar and explore the island?
Renting a scooter or car is the best way to see the island, or travelling on a coach with a small group. Bicycles are an eco-friendly way to see the landscapes surrounding the towns or explore nearby beaches and natural beauty.